Divorce is the end of marriage, but it is a new start in your life as a parent. While you are now single, you may still have to cooperate with your former spouse in making parenting decisions for your children. It’s no secret that matters related to child custody and parenting decisions are among the most challenging aspects of divorce.
Making decisions on behalf of your children may have come without a second thought during your marriage. Your kids went to school at the local district and participated in the extracurricular activities they liked. But now that you’re divorced and living different lifestyles, you and your ex may disagree on these decisions. What should you be aware of as a parent in divorce?
How Ohio decides custody after divorce
Each state has unique child custody laws, but the focus is always on the well-being of children. Therefore, determining the best interests of your children may come down to sole custody versus shared parenting. In a sole custody arrangement, one parent is the primary decision maker in their child’s life, whereas parents work together in shared agreements. Determining sole custody or shared parenting can depend on the child’s age, parent’s work commitments and post-divorce lifestyle.
Decision making after divorce
Big things like where your children will live, go to school or attend church all come into play in divorce. Parents may discover other conflicts down the road like how much time kids are allowed to spend with extended family members and what sports they can play.
Indeed, the decision of whether or not a 17-year-old should play high school football is at the center of a parenting dispute in Pittsburgh. While mom thinks it is okay for her son to play football, dad is concerned about the potential long-term health effects of playing. Indeed, disputes among divorced parents about what sports their children can or cannot play are rising, according to the New York Times.
Going through changes
Issues like these can be addressed as part of a parenting plan that must be made before divorce. Reaching this agreement can be difficult, but it is important to remember that arrangements can change as your children grow older and your lifestyle as a parent changes.
Divorce is the end of your marriage, but it is not the end of your role in ensuring your child’s best interests are met.