Child custody exchange days are crucial. Fighting during an exchange can affect your visit, and it may be uncomfortable for the kids. Thus, to benefit from co-parenting, you should be as amiable as possible these days.
Here is how you can make them smooth:
Maintain a regular exchange day and time
Your parenting plan will specify when you will exchange the kids. It’s crucial to stick to the chosen day and time. Having a determined schedule and strictly maintaining it can eliminate the possibility of conflicts. Further, it can help your kids adjust to the exchanges, as they know when they happen.
Agree on a location
If you and your parent are comfortable going to each other’s homes, this may be the best option for pick-up and drop-off. However, if you are not, you can agree on a neutral location, which you will use every time.
Be on time
Always arrive on time at the agreed location or the other parent’s home during pick-up or drop-off.
Avoid last-minute changes
If you are unable to pick up the kids or won’t be home when they should be dropped off, inform the other parent earlier. Last-minute changes or failing to update them may be unfair and can lead to disputes.
Plan what to tell them
Of course, you may need to inform the other parent a few things about the kids. For example, if they have an ongoing school project, and so on. You should plan for such minor conversations. It seems insignificant, but it can save you from disagreements.
These tips can help you have smooth child custody exchanges. However, if your ex-spouse still makes it difficult for you, it may be time to get legal guidance to protect your parental rights.