Founder
One of the benefits of being childless in a marriage is that divorce means you will rarely have a reason to see your ex-spouse again if you don’t want to. This isn’t true of couples who have children in common. Unlike some others, you will need to maintain a relationship with your spouse long after the divorce has been finalized.
While it can be difficult to maintain decorum after a divorce, it is a must if you hope to raise healthy, happy children. Time-sharing can be difficult to deal with, but you are in control of your actions. Here are some tips on making time-sharing go a bit more smoothly when your divorce is still fresh.
Note: These tips are for ex-couples who did not have a history of abuse, abandonment or other special circumstances in their relationship. Please consult with your attorney for questions regarding your unique situation.
1. Be Positive
You have total control over your attitude. Do not let your opinion of your ex overshadow the excitement that your children have for their visit. Talk to your kids about what they will be doing, who they will be with and what they are looking forward to.
2. Be On Time
It is fair to say that being perpetually late will serve to aggravate your ex, and that may be what you want to do. Stop and think. No matter how much you would like to needle your ex, your children are watching you. When you are constantly late, you are telling your children that their time is not important. Be on time. If something unavoidable comes up, let your ex know as soon as you can.
3. Don’t Argue
It is no more healthy for divorced parents to argue in front of their children than it is for married parents to fight and bicker. Time-sharing is about the kids. If you can’t be pleasant due to circumstances that are occurring, ask someone else to drop the kids off. Adult conversations should be had in private.
4. Allow Phone Calls
Your child’s emotions and needs do not look at a clock. If your little one wants to talk to your ex, hand over the phone or let them send an email. Don’t block your child’s line of communication. Time-sharing is for one parent to spend time with their children, but it doesn’t mean that is the only time your kids can talk to your ex.
5. Comfort Items
Time-sharing can be stressful for children, as one parent is typically in a new residence. Encourage your child to take something back and forth between the two homes to increase their level of comfort. It may be a stuffed animal, a blanket or even a favorite T-shirt. Let your child decide.
It’s understandable that Time-sharing is stressful. Very few people get divorced because they are still in love with one another. The stress you feel should not be felt by your children. Use the tips above to make time-sharing easier for everybody.
If you need assistance in your Orlando divorce, reach out to our team of attorneys. We are here to assist you during this time in your life. Your first phone consultation will be held at no cost to you.
