New York law typically allows for mothers and fathers to have equal access to their children. However, it is important that you and your former spouse create a parenting plan that is based on what your child needs as opposed to what is most convenient for the adults. In many cases, this means that your son or daughter will constantly shuttle between your home and your former spouse’s home.
Why alternating weeks doesn’t work
If your child isn’t allowed to see you for extended periods of time, he or she may develop separation anxiety. While it may be possible to call or talk to your son or daughter online, it could cause issues between yourself and the child’s other parent. You should also consider whether your work schedule allows you to spend enough time with your child throughout an entire week.
A 50/50 split is not required
Although parents should be allowed to have a quality relationship with their children, parenting time doesn’t need to be split exactly down the middle. In some cases, it is better for you to have a child 60% of the time based on your work schedule and other factors. This could result in a parenting plan that allows you to have your son or daughter during the week while the other parent has your son or daughter over the weekend.
A child’s needs may evolve with time
Younger children tend to benefit from frequent exchanges between their parents. However, older children and teenagers may be better able to adapt to spending longer periods of time with one parent. A teenager’s social and work lives may also need to be taken into account when creating or modifying a parenting plan.
If you have any questions about parenting time or other issues related to raising a child after a divorce, it may be best to consult with an attorney. Legal counsel may also be able to help get an existing child custody or visitation order modified if doing so would be in the best interests of your child.