Why a Child’s Age Matters When Creating a Parenting Plan

 Posted on July 14, 2024 in Child Custody / Parental Responsibilities

If you are divorcing, you know how much stress it can cause emotionally, mentally and physically. If you have children, remember that parental separation or divorce is often traumatic for children, too. The effects of divorce impact each child differently, with most children in the same age group experiencing similar issues.

As part of your divorce, you will need to create and submit a parenting plan that outlines various parental duties and parenting time arrangements. To protect the best interests of your children, you need to customize your parenting plan with their ages in mind. If you need help tailoring your parental responsibilities to your children’s ages, contact an experienced divorce attorney.

What Do Children of Different Ages Need?

Regardless of age, children need consistency and stability to do well and feel secure. Co-parenting is not easy, but it is your job as a parent to provide these. Both parents should follow the same routines and rules so children know what to expect, no matter which parent they are with.

There is no one-size-fits-all description of what children need, and each of your children’s needs is unique. In general, however, you can use this information to understand the emotional, developmental, and social needs of different age groups.

As your children grow, you may need to revise your parenting plan to reflect changes. Your lawyer can help.

Infants and Toddlers (0-3 years)

The youngest children usually do best when they follow strict schedules for naps, eating, baths, and bedtimes. They also need regular contact with both parents to form strong bonds.

Try to schedule frequent visits for the non-custodial parent.

Preschoolers (3-5 years)

Youngsters at this stage typically become more comfortable with longer separations from each parent, but they still need regular contact. This age group also benefits from following consistent routines.

Unfortunately, children in this age bracket often feel responsible for their parents’ separation. Both parents should reassure their children that the split is not their fault.

School-Aged (6-12 years)

School-aged children usually do best when they know what to expect and like being involved in creating their schedules and routines. These youngsters deal better with longer periods of parental separation and are more able to adapt to different parenting styles.

Consider giving this group a monthly calendar so they know when they will be with each parent. Be sure to include school and extracurricular activities.

Teenagers (13-18)

Teens need parents to respect their growing independence. They often spend time with friends or at work, which can conflict with scheduled parenting time. Being flexible about schedules is important during these years.

Parents should be consistent with rules about dating, curfews, and other similar topics.

Can You Modify Your Parenting Plan?

Several circumstances may arise that lead to the need to modify your parenting plan. Although you might be tempted to just make an agreement with the other parent without legally changing your plan, you need to make it official. Ask your parental responsibilities lawyer for advice and assistance.

Schedule a Free Limited Consultation With a Cook County, IL Parenting Plan Lawyer

Whether you are developing a parenting plan for the first time or need to modify a current plan, you should consider your children’s ages so you can best meet their needs. The Law Offices of Curtis Bennett Ross, L.L.C. has over 30 years of experience helping families like yours. If you need a qualified Chicago, IL parental responsibilities attorney, call 312-984-1514 today.