How can you prepare for a stress-free custody transfer?
Even under ideal circumstances, sharing custody of children can be a challenge. After all, you and your ex have vastly different parenting styles. If your former husband or spouse has a short fuse, though, you may dread any interaction you have with him or her.
Custody transfers, the meetings you have with your co-parent to swap physical custody of the kids, can be contentious. If you think your ex may turn these transfers into physical altercations, you may want to involve the police. Otherwise, you can take steps to make your custody swaps stress-free.
Prepare early
Arguably, the most effective way to keep your custody transfers as peaceful as possible is to prepare for them early. Indeed, according to Psychology Today, co-parents often lose patience when they perceive their counterparts are not ready for the swap or are needlessly wasting their time.
Pack essential items
The night before your custody transfer, be sure you have packed everything your kids need to spend time with your ex-spouse. Essential items may include one or more of the following:
- Clothing
- Medication
- Homework
- Comfort objects, such as stuffed animals or security blankets
- Electronic devices
- Toys
Communicate changes in plans
Even with your best efforts, you may not always arrive at your custody transfer location on time. If you are stuck in traffic or otherwise running late, try to communicate the delay to your ex as promptly as possible. A brief phone call or short text message can help to set realistic expectations.
Ultimately, though, if your co-parent continues to become irate during your custody transfers, it may be time to put some additional rules into your custody agreement.