One of the most difficult aspects of sharing custody is making the custody swap. This can be a stressful time for families. However, there are some things you can do to make the transition a bit easier.
One thing that can be helpful is to keep a calendar at both houses. Fatherly says that a calendar can help your family see when the custody swap will occur. You can also write down what time you will leave so the children know when they need to be ready. Here are some other tips for simplifying the swap.
Create a list
According to Talking Parents, moving between houses is easier if everyone knows what to pack. You may keep toothbrushes and hairbrushes at each house. However, many items will need to travel with your children. A list can help you make sure that your children have all the essentials. These may include the following items:
- A favorite stuffed animal or book
- Medications that a child takes each day
- Shoes and equipment for sports and other after-school activities
- Textbooks and homework for school
Checking items off a list can make packing easier for both you and your child.
Choose a good location
You can make the custody swap in several different ways. You could drop the children off at their other parent’s house and spend a few minutes with them before you leave. However, you could also choose a neutral place, such as a local library or your children’s school. This can sometimes make it less stressful for young children. They may find it easier to leave one parent if they do not feel like they are being taken away.
If you plan ahead, you can make sure that the transition between houses is as stress-free as possible.
