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How do parenting plans work in Delaware?

When couples divorce in Delaware, they must settle many key factors about their marriage and financial interests, as well as decide on how they would want to share custody of their children.

During this process, the parents will work on a document that can comprehensively outline their shared parenting duties and respective schedules with their children. This document is called a “parenting plan.”

What are the benefits of a parenting plan?

To help ensure that your children can adjust to their new living arrangements, your parenting plan must include a clear structure of their daily routines at home and in school.

By creating a scheduling system that easily outlines your children’s routines and your shared time with them, you and your spouse can:

  • Foster stability and predictability in your children’s lives
  • Reduce your children’s stress and anxiety
  • Boost your children’s morale
  • Encourage open communication
  • Provide your children with a positive perception

Since you are fostering a safe space for your children to thrive in, they can become more at ease with the changes and adjust better to them.

What must a parenting plan contain?

To create an effective co-parenting plan in Delaware, your document must discuss the following essential matters:

  • Drop-off and pickup schedule
  • School and sports events
  • Religious events
  • Medical and dental check-ups
  • Communication rules
  • Vacations, holidays and school breaks
  • Domestic and international travel
  • Terms for relocation
  • Decision-making arrangements

Your co-parenting plan must also include a dispute resolution that you and your spouse can use when you need to settle on your disagreements.

Your family will be okay

As you and your spouse navigate your divorce proceedings, you must both set your personal feelings aside and work together to draft a parenting plan that can effectively foster stability in your children’s lives, not just at home but also in their school and community.