For both parents and children, one of the most difficult aspects to adjust to post-divorce is child custody. Even if both parents and the court have focussed on maintaining stability, there will be some level of change.
One obstacle that co-parents have to overcome is handovers. This may involve one parent dropping the child off at the other parent’s home, a parent coming to collect their child or picking the child up from a public place. Wherever child handovers occur, the less conflict the better.
Outlined below are a few tips to help ensure that handovers go smoothly.
Choose the best environment
Handovers need to occur in a place where everyone feels comfortable. For some, this can occur at the family home. However, for other parents and children, handovers at the family home may be too much. They may remind parents of arguments that were had in the past.
Many parents find it beneficial to carry out handovers in a public place. This could be the child’s favorite restaurant example. This tactic can help keep everyone calm and it also establishes handovers as a positive experience for the child.
Maintain a good routine
Child custody orders are legally binding. Parents have to follow them. Occasionally, it may be understandable if a parent runs late, but this shouldn’t happen all the time. As far as possible, a stable routine should be kept, with pick-up times and drop-off times being agreed beforehand.
Once co-parents have established a routine, handovers can go smoothly. It is important that both parents put previous issues behind them and focus on the best interests of the child. If you’re in the midst of a custody dispute or want to make a custody modification, it is essential to have legal guidance on your side.