Nobody denies that sharing custody of a child is difficult. Juggling multiple schedules, organizing visits and holidays, and making sure your child lives a balanced and happy life is a stressful endeavor.
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the new lifestyle changes – especially in the first few months following a divorce. However, it is important to remember that you are not alone, and it is possible to make joint custody work for you, your child and your ex-spouse.
If you are going through a divorce or a child custody battle, contact the Elliot Green Law Offices. A Staten Island divorce attorney from our firm will address your concerns and answer any questions you may have about the divorce or child custody process. Mr. Green will also help you avoid mistakes that could compromise your interests.
Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule an appointment, and read on for four tips to help ease the stress of joint custody:
- Remain Civil
According to Parents.com, the most important rule to follow when sharing custody with your ex is to remain civil and avoid bad-mouthing the other parent.
Experts suggest that your child will internalize everything you say about your ex, and this will have a profound effect on your child’s happiness and well-being. Turning your child against your ex-spouse will not further your own gains, and it may actually jeopardize you and your child’s relationship. It is normal to feel anger and frustration toward an ex, but it is important never to vocalize this in front of your child.
- Remove Emotions from the Equation
It may be tempting to overcommit yourself to visitation schedules and responsibilities due to the emotion of the custody situation. Parents.com recommends that you remove the emotion from the child custody situation and instead view it more as a business agreement. Resist the temptation to make unrealistic commitments or promises based on your own insecurities.
- Stay Focused on the Children
HelpGuide.org recommends that you keep all conversations and interactions with your ex focused on your shared children. Do not discuss specific needs or personal situations with your ex. You do not have a responsibility toward your ex, and by keeping the conversation focused on your children, you will deal with the most important issue and avoid potential arguments or areas of conflict.
- Create a Realistic Custody Arrangement and Prepare to Adapt
A realistic custody arrangement should take several important factors into account. These include your child’s age, personality and interests. Consider your child’s hobbies, schooling and daily schedule, and understand that these will change as your child grows older.
At the same time, factor in your own family schedule, personal work and social commitments. Parents.com recommends that you create a consistent schedule that will allow you, your ex and your child to get into a routine so you are all on the same page.
Child custody can be a difficult process, but at the Elliot Green Law Offices, we can assist you with any complex family law matters. Call us today at 718-260-8668 to schedule an appointment with a Queens family lawyer.
