When considering your child custody arrangement, you want to give your child the type of home life that makes them comfortable, relaxed and happy. Childhood is a special time. It is supposed to be carefree and enjoyable. The home — or homes — that a child lives in plays a big role in all of that.
So, what will a child look for? What do they want and need? How can you give that to them?
The biggest thing that they need is a positive atmosphere. They need to feel secure and loved. They need to know that they have the support of their family, even if (and when) they make mistakes. You can communicate this in numerous ways. Simply spending time with them goes a long way, which is why it’s important for both parents to be involved in their child’s care.
From a physical standpoint, you also need a home with kid-friendly spaces. Don’t just think about functionality, which is most important to adults. Think about how fun and inviting the home feels. Does the child have their own room, a space that they can think of as their private area? Does the home have good play areas and bonus spaces so they have room to move around and play games? Does it have outdoor space so that they can burn off energy and get fresh air? All of these things make the home feel more like a haven to the child, a place where they can relax and enjoy life.
Divided custody situations can be complex. When you want to put your child first, make sure you know what options you have. It helps to have an experienced attorney weigh in and explain what works — and what doesn’t — when it comes to child custody issues.