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Attorney Lauren Fields

Top Ten Ways To Get More Time with Your Child when Getting a Divorce

By Lauren Fields Jan. 9, 2023

Being involved in your child's life is one of the most important things a parent can do. There are many benefits to being an active and present parent, both for the child and for the parent.

First and foremost, being involved in your child's life allows you to be there for them as they grow and develop. You can help guide them, support them, and be a positive influence in their life. You can also help to ensure that their physical, emotional, and developmental needs are being met.

Being involved in your child's life also allows you to have a strong and positive relationship with them. By spending time with your child and getting to know them, you can build trust, understanding, and a deep bond. This can be especially important during the teenage years, when children may be more likely to turn to their peers for support and guidance.

Additionally, being involved in your child's life can help to improve their academic and social skills. When parents are actively involved in their child's education, for example, research has shown that children are more likely to perform better in school and have fewer behavioral problems. Similarly, when parents are involved in their child's extracurricular activities, children may be more likely to develop social skills, teamwork, and leadership skills.

Finally, being involved in your child's life can be rewarding and fulfilling for the parent as well. It can bring a sense of purpose and meaning to your life, and can help you to feel more connected and engaged with your child.

Overall, the importance of being involved in your child's life cannot be overstated. By being an active and present parent, you can have a positive and lasting impact on your child's life. This is never more important than when you are going through a divorce. Below are the top ten ways to get more time with your children while going through a divorce.

1.      Negotiate a custody arrangement that works for you: It may be possible to negotiate a custody arrangement that allows you to have more time with your children. This could include sharing physical custody or having a schedule that allows you to have the children more often.

2.      Propose a parenting plan that is in the best interests of the children: If you are able to demonstrate that a custody arrangement that allows you more time with the children is in their best interests, it may be more likely to be approved by the court.

3.      Demonstrate your commitment to your children: Showing that you are an involved and responsible parent can increase your chances of being awarded more time with your children. This could include participating in their schooling, extracurricular activities, and other important aspects of their lives.

4.      Work with a mediator or counselor: A mediator or counselor can help you and your spouse communicate and come to an agreement on a custody arrangement that works for everyone.

5.      Seek the help of a child custody lawyer: A child custody lawyer can help you advocate for your rights as a parent and negotiate a custody arrangement that allows you more time with your children.

6.      Consider the needs and schedules of the children: When determining a custody arrangement, it's important to consider the needs and schedules of the children. For example, if they have a full schedule of after-school activities, it may be more practical to have them with one parent during the week and the other on the weekends.

7.      Communicate with your spouse: Open and honest communication with your spouse can help you come to an agreement on a custody arrangement that works for both of you.

8.      Be flexible: Being flexible and willing to compromise can help you and your spouse reach an agreement that allows you more time with your children.

9.      Seek the help of a mediator: A mediator can help you and your spouse come to an agreement on a custody arrangement that works for everyone.

10.  Consider the impact on your children: It's important to consider the impact on your children when determining a custody arrangement. A custody arrangement that allows you more time with your children may not always be in their best interests, so it's important to consider their needs as well.