Child Custody Arrangements – How To Maximise Time With Your Child

Divorce is a tough journey, especially when children are in the picture. With a new dynamic in place and less time overall spent with your child, it can feel difficult to maintain the same close relationship as before. However, now it’s more important than ever to keep that bond alive, so your children can feel safe and loved in a time of transition. 

Our family lawyer, Tayo Taylor, has lots of experience with joint custody and can offer advice on how to maintain a close relationship with your children during this tumultuous time.

What Is Joint Custody And How Does It Work?

In the UK, there are two main types of child custody you should know of:

• Sole custody – one parent has primary care and control of the child. This is also known as a “live with” Child Arrangements Order.
• Joint custody – both parents have a shared responsibility for taking care of the child. This is also known as a “shared care” Child Arrangements Order

Your child custody arrangement should keep the child’s best interests at heart, as you try to create a stable and nurturing environment for them in this new stage of your life. 

Joint Custody

Joint custody means that the child will spend a significant amount of time with both parents, which requires a good schedule to be set in place. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean a 50/50 split – you can divide the time in various ways, such as:

• Alternating weeks or two-week periods.
• A 2-2-3 schedule (two days with one parent, two with the other, and a three-day weekend that alternates).
• A schedule where the child lives with one parent during the week and the other on weekends.

Your chosen child custody arrangements should always be in the best interest of your child. Consider factors like your proximity to the other parent, both of your work schedules, and your child’s routine.

Joint custody may not be suitable in every situation, especially in cases of domestic abuse or an inability to communicate. If you find yourself in a difficult situation, our family lawyer, Tayo Taylor, is one phone call away.

Spending Time With Your Children Post-Divorce – How To Make Every Moment Count

One of the most significant challenges when navigating shared custody is maximising the time you have with your children. With a limited schedule, it’s important to try to make the most of every moment, so you can build a strong, long-lasting bond with your kids. As family lawyers, here’s what we’ve found works best for newly divorced parents navigating this new dynamic:

Communication Is Key

During the transition into a joint custody dynamic, effective communication with your co-parent is vital. A cooperative relationship allows for flexibility and can prevent your child from feeling like they are caught in the middle. If there’s a special event or an important moment in your child’s life, try to work together to ensure you can both be there if possible.

Don’t forget to communicate with your children, too. They should have a say in some of the decisions – after all, you’re trying to find what works best for them.

A Detailed Schedule Goes A Long Way

Whether that’s an alternating weeks schedule, or a 2-2-3 schedule, you should make a living plan unique to your situation. This schedule should include where the child will be on specific days, holidays, and school breaks. It should also include transportation arrangements and any other important details. With a clear schedule, you can help minimise confusion and conflicts between you and your co-parent.

Quality Over Quantity

It’s easy to get caught up in the number of hours or days you have with your child. Instead, focus on the quality of that time. Put away your phone, turn off the TV, and be fully present. Whether you’re helping with homework, playing a board game, or simply having a chat, undivided attention shows your child that they are your priority.

With legal guidance, you can also get the help you need to manage complex issues such as child custody or financial asset division, helping you achieve the best outcomes for you and your children.

Rebuild Your Future With MHHP Law

Divorce is undeniably a challenging and emotionally taxing journey, but with MHHP Law by your side, you’ll gain the clarity and understanding you need regarding your rights and options. Take the first step towards a new chapter with confidence. Speak with our dedicated family solicitor, Tayo Taylor, today and let us help you move forward.

Keep Traditions Alive

Children thrive on routines and find comfort and security in knowing what to expect. If your family always had pancake Sundays or a specific movie night, find a way to keep these traditions going in your new home. These small, familiar rituals will feel like anchors in a sea of change for your kid. Talk to your co-parent and see if you can align on some of these routines. 

Create New Traditions

Shared custody can also mean an opportunity to create new traditions! Whether that’s a pizza night or board game night, these new rituals give your child something to look forward to and create special memories that are unique to your time together. As mentioned before, quality trumps quantity when it comes to spending time with your kid, and new, fun traditions are the best way to maximise quality time. 

Stay Engaged in Their Life

Even when your child is with your ex-partner, you can still be an active part of their life. Call or text them to ask about their day, cheer them on at their sports games, or attend their school events. Show them that even though you may not be physically present, you are still their biggest fan and supporter.

Don’t Make Transitions Harder Than They Need To Be

Transition days can be stressful for children, so you should try to make the handover as smooth and positive as possible. Avoid discussing conflict or negative feelings about the other parent in front of your child – a calm, friendly exchange reassures your child that both of their parents love them and are working together. 

It is inevitable that conflicts will arise between co-parents, but it is crucial to keep these conflicts away from the child. Instead, find a way to communicate and resolve conflicts without involving your children.

Maximise Contact With Your Child With The Help of MHHP Law

Transitioning to joint child custody after divorce is a complex journey, and the legal aspects can feel overwhelming. If you are navigating these waters and need guidance on creating a parenting plan, understanding your rights, or mediating with your co-parent, please contact MHHP Law today, and we’ll help you make the best decisions for your family.