It is not uncommon to get very angry and spiteful towards an ex-spouse while going through a divorce. Although sometimes necessary, divorce can be tough on all of the parties involved. Even when couples attempt to spare their children from having to experience some of the negative feelings that a divorce can cause, children can be quite perceptive and realize what is going on. Thus, it is very important that, regardless of how nasty a divorce gets, all involved children continue to spend adequate parenting time with both parents. It may be tempting for one parent to use a child against the other parent to help get what they want, however doing so can be very damaging to the children. When children are involved, providing them with a nurturing and supportive environment should remain both parents’ ultimate goal despite their pending differences.
Co-Parenting is Crucial
According to research, infants and preschool children are most affected by a divorce. In fact, research indicates that it is very important to provide young children with stability, consistency, and predictability when it comes to a caregiving routine. Since most young children are used to having both of their parents actively involved in a daily routine, it is imperative that both parents continue to maintain a routine after a divorce. A failure to do so can have a negative impact on the well being of a child.
Divorce can be just as hard on older children as they struggle to cope with the changes in living arrangements and family dynamics. Reiterating to a child that both parents are there to support and guide them even though they are no longer married is crucial. After all, co-parenting plays a vital role in a child’s life and should take precedence over any marital disputes.
Parenting time Guidelines in Illinois
Guidelines regarding parenting time can be found in the Illinois Marriage and Dissolution of Marriage Act. In Illinois, parenting time is referred to as visitation and is defined as in-person time that is spent between a child and his or her parent. Typically courts look to the best interest of the child when determining how much visitation the child should receive from the non-custodial parent (parent who does not live with the child). It is typically recommended that parents come together and form a favorable visitation schedule so that a child does not feel neglected by one of the parents.
Contact a Child Custody and Visitation Attorney in Illinois
If you are unable to agree with a mutually beneficial visitation schedule with your ex-spouse in the DuPage County area, please contact one of our Illinois child visitation lawyers at Sullivan Taylor, Gumina & Palmer, P.C. today. Our attorneys are well versed in Illinois child custody laws and can help make sure that you are able to spend adequate time with your children.
