Child Custody Schedules by Age
Have you ever wondered about the best child custody schedule based on your child’s age?
At TheBostonDivorceLawyer, we understand the importance of finding the right schedule for your family’s needs. Let us help you navigate this important decision.
On the authority of “Child Custody and Visitation Law and Practice” by Maria C. Harsel, child custody schedules can vary by age to accommodate the child’s developmental needs. Parents are encouraged to create a schedule that is in the best interest of the child based on their age and individual circumstances. It is important to consult with a legal professional to determine the most suitable custody schedule for your child’s age.
Infants
Come to think of it, since babies rely heavily on their main caregiver for things like feeding, diaper changes, and comfort, it’s very important to keep regular contact with that caregiver. This might mean having shorter, more frequent visits so the baby isn’t away from the main caregiver for too long.
Babies also do best with a steady routine. A custody plan should consider the baby’s nap times, feedings, and bedtime routines. This could mean letting the baby stay overnight with each parent, but focusing on the main caregiver during the day.
It’s also important to think about the baby’s bond with each parent. All kidding aside, while babies usually have a strong attachment to their main caregiver, they can also build a strong bond with the other parent through regular visits. A good custody plan should help both parents bond with the baby for their emotional growth.
Toddlers
Keeping it real, toddlers do best with routine and predictability, so it’s important to set a regular schedule for them.
They don’t understand time well and might find it hard to switch between homes. Parents should work together to make a schedule that causes as little disruption as possible, helping the child feel secure in both places.
At this age, toddlers form strong bonds with their main caregivers. Parents should focus on strengthening the child’s relationship with each of them by spending quality time with the child often.
Toddlers are also becoming more independent and might start showing their preferences. Frankly, parents need to pay attention to the child’s needs and be willing to adjust the schedule if needed.
Good communication between parents is key to a smooth custody arrangement. Regular check-ins and open discussions about the child’s well-being can help parents make better decisions and handle any issues that come up.
Preschoolers
Believe it or not, at this age, preschoolers are very curious and full of energy. They have many questions and want to explore the world around them. They are still learning how to communicate well and may have trouble expressing their feelings. Having a routine and consistency helps them because they are just starting to understand time and order.
For preschoolers’ custody schedules, it’s important to think about what they need at this stage. Regular and predictable routines can make them feel safe during changes. Shorter, more frequent visits with each parent might be better since they might not handle long separations well.
Preschoolers often have a close bond with their main caregiver.Keeping it real, this should be considered when making a custody schedule, allowing the child to spend enough time with both parents while maintaining that important attachment.
They may also need specific things to make moving between homes easier. Parents can help by communicating with each other and keeping a consistent routine. Bringing familiar items, like a favorite toy or blanket, can also make transitions smoother.
In general, the key to a good custody schedule for preschoolers is to focus on their emotional well-being and stability. By understanding what they need at this stage and providing a steady and supportive environment, parents can help their preschoolers adapt to a new custody arrangement with minimal disruption.
School age
The custody schedule should create a stable and consistent routine for the child, helping them do well in school and enjoy their hobbies.
During the school year, the schedule can be based on the child’s school hours and homework time. Parents can switch weeks or weekends, giving the child quality time with both. It’s important to talk to the child’s teachers and coaches about the custody plan.
As kids grow older, their social lives become more important. Parents need to consider this when making a custody schedule for school-age children. If you think about it, the schedule should allow the child to hang out with friends and join social events while keeping a good relationship with both parents.
Summer and holidays can have more flexible custody schedules. Parents can split this time equally or have longer periods with each parent. It’s important to think about the child’s preferences and interests when planning for summer and holidays.
Adolescents
Adolescents are considered to be children between the ages of 13 and 18.
Keeping it real, when figuring out custody schedules during child custody disputes, the child’s age matters. Teenagers have different needs and preferences than younger kids. They are at a point where they want more freedom.
Creating custody schedules for teenagers should consider their school times, extracurricular activities, and social lives. Teens often have strong opinions about where they want to live and how much time they want with each parent. It’s very important for parents to communicate and work together to make a schedule that meets the teen’s needs while also keeping the child’s best interests in mind.
For real, teenagers might also benefit from having a say in their custody arrangements. Sometimes, teens can share their preferences with the court or a mediator. This helps make sure their needs and wishes are considered in the custody plans. Parents should listen to their teenager’s concerns and involve them in the decision-making process as much as possible.
In Final Consideration
As previously highlighted in determining child custody schedules by age, it is important to consider the developmental needs and preferences of the child.
What TheBostonDivorceLawyers is suggesting to look at is that younger children may benefit from more frequent but shorter visits with each parent, while older children may require more stability and flexibility in their schedule. Ultimately, the best custody arrangement is one that prioritizes the well-being and happiness of the child.
References
“Parenting Plan Evaluation: Applied Research for the Family Court” by K. Kuehnle, Oxford University Press, 2017
“Child Custody, Visitation, and Support in Illinois” by A. R. Part, LexisNexis, 2018
“A Handbook of Child Custody” by H. W. Hetherington, Psychology Press, 2006
