Parenting Plan vs Custody Agreement

Custody agreements are a required necessity when a couple choses to uncouple. This agreement typically directs when the children will be with which parent and it often addresses where they will be on holidays. Further, it is usually created by lawyers and or judges not the parents of the children themselves. Further what it does not address is how the parents of these children agree to or want to raise their children. Issues such as religion, education, technology, how to celebrate birthdays and or milestones and activities are not typically included in a custody agreement.

When parents can sit down together and being to create the road map to raising the children many positive things can happen. Processing what both parties want and feel is important to them often is a beneficial way to create a positive coparenting relationship. It shows the children their parents are in alignment and working together which creates a sense of security and reenforces they are loved and being well cared for even in two homes. It allows parents to form a working relationship that has high value to both parties and often puts the reasons they are no longer together aside.

Such a document is tailored to an individual families morals, values, wants and needs. It is a fluid document that grows and changes as your children grow and change. If your family system could benefit from a such a document feel free to contact our office and we would be happy to guide you through the process and help you anticipate the many things ahead of you on this parenting journey.