When a married couple gets a divorce in Texas, their community property acquired during marriage is split 50-50. Though the same rule does not apply to child custody, it is generally a good idea for parents to share custody and to work together with each other to parent their children. Though this is easier said than done, there are ways that parents can improve their own habits and behavior that may make their relationship with their ex and their children more amicable.
Parents often get caught up in their own emotions when going through a separation, which can cause them to neglect their children’s feelings. This is not abnormal, but it does mean that parents need to make an extra effort to be attentive to their children. Parents should encourage their children to talk about how the divorce is affecting them, and they should give their children love and reassurance.
Another thing parents may forget to consider is how they are going to juggle their own work obligations with taking care of their kids now that there is no longer another parent around to help. When creating a child custody schedule, parents may want to discuss their options with a babysitter or nanny who will be taking care of the kids while the parents are at work. Parents should also be prepared to put their egos aside and to make concessions to their ex if it turns out that a schedule preference of the ex is actually better for everyone involved.
Parents should do their best to communicate with each other to discuss important medical and education decisions, and they should also let the other parent know as soon as they can if they need to make a modification to the schedule. Though child custody can help parents prepare for unexpected events that may throw off a schedule, parents should be aware that not everything in life can be planned perfectly.