Many Kentucky families are adjusting to a new family dynamic and lifestyle that is different from prior years. Adapting to new customs and helping children cope with changes in life is less stressful when both parents are like-minded or at least able to cooperate and compromise for their kids’ sake. If you are preparing for a divorce, you can take comfort in knowing that there is a child custody option available that may help minimize disruption and stress in your children’s daily life.
A child custody arrangement known as “bird nesting” has become increasingly popular in recent years. This may be partially due to several celebrities who have shared their stories with the public. Since then, more and more parents have decided to try similar custody arrangements, including bird nesting, which basically means that a pair of parents who divorce agree to continue sharing their marital home so that their kids do not have to move.
You might find bird nest child custody beneficial in several ways
Those who advocate bird nesting after divorce have spoken about its many benefits, including those shown in the following list:
- It helps kids maintain a sense of structure, routine and normalcy as they come to terms with their parents’ divorce.
- As spouses who must resolve many issues to achieve a settlement, you will not face the burden of having a house to sell, which leaves a lot of time and energy to focus on other important matters.
- Continuing to pay on an existing mortgage may be less stressful than taking on a new one.
It might feel emotionally awkward at first to be living in the house you shared with your former spouse. Many people have found ways to overcome such feelings, such as by choosing a new room for a bedroom and decorating it as a personal space.
Possible downsides to a bird nest arrangement
The holidays are a time that can be challenging for parents who have chosen a bird nest child custody plan. Careful scheduling can help avoid complications. For instance, if your extended family typically comes to stay during the holidays, you’ll want to make sure their visit is during a time when you have custody of the kids. If you or your ex enter a new romantic relationship, this can also create issues in a bird nesting arrangement.
When you draw up terms of agreement for custody, you can incorporate ground rules for future relationships, such as setting aside specific areas of the house as “off limits” to respect the other parent’s privacy. Even with the best of plans in place, unexpected child custody issues may arise that can erupt into a full-blown dispute if not resolved in a timely manner. It is always best to have a support system in place, especially to help resolve legal issues you do not feel equipped to handle on your own.