Parents are the main support system for their children. When separated from either one of the parents for an extended period, the effects may be traumatic. The Huffington Post reports on a study that determined the best outcome for children of divorce is to spend time with both parents.
Two amicable parents can make a difference in a child’s ability to adapt to his or her new situation.
Children may have fewer problems
Children who have amicable and stable parents are more likely to believe that everything is going to be okay. They are more likely to have one on one time with each parent because their parents do not have to spread themselves thin to tackle life stress and parental responsibilities. Parents have more balance in their lives and this benefits their relationship with the children.
Birdnesting may address children’s needs
Birdnesting, according to NBC, is a shared custody arrangement where the children remain in the family home and the parents rotate in and out on a weekly schedule. Birdnesting is a tool for children to adjust to divorce. Children have little disruption in their lives when parents utilize this model. Children do not have to move houses on the weekend or every other week, they do not have to change their normal routine.
This type of shared custody works best when used short-term. Parents should think of it as a transitional period. It allows children to adjust to the idea of their parents divorcing without having to turn their lives upside down. Six months is the typical limit that parents should nest.
