Being a separated parent is a daunting challenge. Here are some issues you may wish to consider in exploring what kind of arrangements would suit your new family best.
If you think it would be helpful to have a parenting plan agreed we can work on this in mediation.
Who is going to spend time with whom – how will this change as your child/children grow older?
What values are important to you in bringing up your children?
Communication – how will you communicate with each other regarding important issues to do with your child/children, including emergencies in health or day to day information. How you will communicate with your child/children when they are not in your direct care.
Living Arrangements- do you have any concerns about the physical environment which might affect your child (pets, danger, smoking, seatbelts)
Do you need to stipulate an approach to parental boundaries/guidance/ discipline – electronic devices, reading time etc.
Religion – is this an important issue for you
Homework and school related activities
Birthdays, Christmas, Holidays – what are your expectations on amounts of money spent on presents, appropriate activities etc.
Emergencies- This might include what should happen if either of you go to hospital, are sick, have to go overseas, lose work, have unexpected large bills, are incarcerated, are disabled, etc. that would interfere with your capacity to look after your child/children.
Finances for supporting your child over and above what may or may not be covered by any child maintenance agreements – This would include what your preferences as regards who pays for what. The following list is provided 12
to help you think about the myriad of costs in bringing up a child.
- Bedroom Furniture
- School books and stationery
- school uniform
- sports outfits
- School excursions
- School lunches
- After school care fees
- Extracurricular activities
- Movies
- DVDs
- Computers and equipment
- Mobile phone and bills
- Outings
- Parties
- Toiletries •
- Transport/bus, train etc.
- Birthday and other presents for his friends and relatives
- Pocket money
Which other People will be involved in your child’s/children’s life – this could include extended family members, new partners, friends. Food – Your preferences for the types of food your child/children should eat and why.
School Issues-This would include how you will share school reports, choice of schools, homework support, equipment, uniforms, activities permissions, bullying, special needs support etc.
What happens to your child/children if you die – you need to get new wills drafted.