The Real Talk Guide to Co-Parenting, Custody, and Parenting Plans

The Real Talk Guide to Co-Parenting, Custody, and Parenting Plans | How to Create a Parenting Plan

https://www.thedivorceallies.com/

Welcome to the Divorce Allies podcast, where we dive deep into all things related to divorce, from creating settlement offers with a team of financial professionals and divorce mortgage planning specialists to navigating the emotional and psychological aspects of the process. I’m Anna Graham, the small business mentor for the Divorce Allies team, and today, I’m joined by Cristin Terri, a divorce coach and parenting specialist.

In this episode, we're diving into some of the most common questions Kristen receives from parents dealing with divorce and custody issues. We know that these topics come up frequently, and many of you are facing these struggles, so we thought it would be helpful to have an almost “FAQ session” to provide valuable insights and practical advice for those navigating co-parenting and custody situations.

Questions Discussed in This Episode:
What do you see as the biggest mistake parents make in a custody battle?
What makes a great parenting plan, and why are templates not enough?
Why don’t you recommend starting with a 50/50 or 70/30 custody schedule?
What does 50/50 custody actually look like, and how does it vary depending on family structure, state, or age of the children?
Why are generic parenting plan templates a problem, and what are some of the overlooked details parents should consider?
What is parallel parenting, and how does it work in high-conflict situations?
Can a parenting plan be changed over time, and what should parents know about revising it?
What is often overlooked when creating a comprehensive parenting plan?
How do you rewire your mindset around co-parenting, and why is that process so important?

5 Key Takeaways:
Emotions Cloud Judgment:
The biggest mistake many parents make in a custody battle is allowing personal emotions and hurt to cloud their judgment. Parents often project their anger onto the other parent, which can negatively affect their child’s well-being. The key is to focus on what’s best for your children, even if it feels like a sacrifice.

A Parenting Plan is a Lifeline:
While no parenting plan is perfect, it’s essential to have one in place for when things get messy. A good plan is your co-parenting safety net, helping you navigate challenges, unexpected events, and emotional moments. It’s a tool that stabilizes the situation for your children.

Focus on What Works for Your Family, Not the Numbers:
Instead of fixating on a 50/50 or 70/30 custody schedule, parents should focus on what works best for their children and family dynamics. Custody arrangements should be about quality time and stability, not just splitting time by percentages.

Parenting Plans Are Not One-Size-Fits-All:
Generic templates don’t account for the specific needs of each family. It’s important to customize your parenting plan to your child’s age, special needs, and your unique family structure. Consider everything from decision-making authority to travel plans, emergency protocols, and the introduction of new partners.

Mindset Matters:
Co-parenting isn’t just about logistics; it’s also about mindset. Changing how you think about your ex-spouse and the situation is crucial to moving forward. Through practices like meditation and self-reflection, you can train your mind to focus on what’s best for your children, rather than getting stuck in past hurts or fears.

The Divorce Allies
https://www.thedivorceallies.com/

Cristin Terri
https://www.gracefullyuntangled.com/