How are we going to make decisions for our children together after our divorce? I am so angry with my ex-spouse, should I just send messages through our children? How can I find out more information about my ex-spouse, should I ask our children for a quick update? There are many questions individuals in Georgia and elsewhere need answered when going through a divorce, especially when there are children involved. It is important to remember a few pieces of advice when going through a divorce and children are involved.
First, divorcing parents should leave the children out of their disagreements. Parents may accomplish this by allowing the children to report back what occurred with their other parent on their own terms rather than asking the children many questions about the other parent. Parents should also consider not speaking poorly about the other parent; it is important that the children are able to have healthy relationships with each parent.
Second, parents should act reasonably and cooperate with one another. Parents may plan together special events for the children. Parents may also consider being open and honest about the gifts they are giving the children so as to lessen any possible competition between the parents.
In a divorce, parents must come to an agreement on child custody matters. If they are unable to, the court may order a child custody arrangement based on the best interests of the child. There are two categories of child custody: legal custody and physical custody. Legal custody pertains to a parent's ability to make important decisions for the children, such as medical, religious and educational decisions. Generally, legal custody is awarded to both parents; if both parents are given the responsibility to make decisions for the child, it is better for the children to have parents work cooperatively in coordinating plans for the children.
Divorce may be frustrating and contentious for parents, but it may also be emotional for their children. It is in the best interests of the children for parents to work toward cooperation so that the children may have healthy relationships with each parent.