Life can be hectic when you’re not going through a divorce—and now that you are, it can be downright overwhelming. Between work, school, extracurricular activities, and meeting with your Raleigh divorce lawyer, finding quality time with your children can be difficult.
While your lawyer helps you create a good child custody and visitation agreement, keep in mind that your kids will be happier and healthier if they spend as much quality time as possible with both you and your ex.
Know Your Rights
Talk to your Raleigh divorce lawyer and familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of your child custody and visitation rights. Whether you’ll become the custodial or non-custodial parent, it’s a good idea to know how the law establishes your rights in that role.
Give Them Structure
During divorce, children sometimes feel like their world is falling apart. They need structure and a regulated schedule to help them regain their balance. Set aside specific times that are designated for one-on-one time with your kids—and stick to them. Whether you set aside Saturday mornings before you run errands or you name Thursdays “Family Game Night,” maintain a schedule. Your children will see that you’re making them your priority, and they’ll look forward to the one-on-one time they get with you.
Do Things You Know They Enjoy
Try to target your activities based on things you know your kids enjoy. Making time for each individual child is great, but if you have more than one child, you’ll need to come up with group activities. A bike ride or a hike can make a great all-ages activity. Try something crafty, like making T-shirts, or bake a pizza together. Don’t be afraid to try new things that the kids suggest, either—kids are fantastic at coming up with creative ways to spend time with Mom or Dad.
Keep it Simple
You don’t have to plan extraordinary activities in order to spend time with your children. There are simple things that you can do as a family to show you’re interested in their lives. Have dinner together, stroll around the neighborhood and swing by your favorite ice cream shop—and while you’re together, ask them about school, friends and their interests.
Your children need to see both you and your ex as much as possible. With your Raleigh divorce lawyer or mediator’s help, you can craft a custody agreement that works for everyone.
