After you and your co-parent develop a custody agreement, you should ensure your child understands it. This way, they can be confident and independent, which can help build healthy habits like time management and organization.
It’s vital to know how to explain the custody schedule to your child to avoid further confusion. Below are three tips to employ:
Prepare them
When you sit down with your child, let them know what you want to talk about and inform them that, regardless of the schedule, both parents will always love and support them.
Use simple language
Let your child know the custody schedule you will be using. Is it a 2-2-3, alternating weeks, 2 weeks each, alternating every 2 days, etc.? Then use simple language to explain it, especially if your child is younger.
For example, if it’s a 2-2-3 schedule, you can tell them they if they spend Monday and Tuesday with you, they will be with the other parent on Wednesday and Thursday, and then with you on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and the following week it switches, starting with the other parent.
Consider using a visual aid to make it easier. Pick a week on a calendar and mark the days they will be with you and the other parent using different colors, and then ask them to mark the next week. Help them with this exercise until they understand.
It can also help to have a calendar on the refrigerator where to mark every week or use magnets to denote custody days and other important events.
Discuss communication
Remind your child that they can contact either of their parents at any time. Ensure you make provisions that make communication easier.
Your child knowing the custody schedule can help reduce anxiety and foster a sense of security. Learn more about how to make co-parenting a success.