This article explores the importance of parenting plans, their components, and how a mediator can help parents create a plan that serves their child’s best interests.
Table of Contents
Why Are Parenting Plans Necessary
Parenting plans are formal agreements that assist divorced or separated parents in determining how they will share responsibilities and rights regarding their children. The importance of parenting plans should not be underestimated especially in situations where parents struggle with their rights and responsibilities.
The Children’s Act encourages parents facing difficulties to seek help from a family advocate, social worker, psychologist, or mediator before approaching the court.
Drafting And Enforcing A Parenting Plan
Once parents have reached an agreement through mediation, they can either file the plan with the Office of the Family Advocate or have it made a court order, which is crucial in high conflict or domestic violence cases to ensure accountability.
Termination or Amendment of A Parenting Plan
The plan can be changed or terminated through an application process. If registered with the Office of the Family Advocate, changes must be applied for at the Office of the Family Advocate. Applications can be made by parents, the child, or a person acting in the child’s interests. The following article contains more information on the role of the Office of the Family Advocate.
Creating A Parenting Plan
The plan outlines how parents will exercise their responsibilities and rights in compliance with the Children’s Act, focusing on the child’s best interests.
The plan must follow a prescribed form and address:
- Where and with whom the child will live
- The child’s maintenance
- Contact between the child and any other person
- The child’s schooling and religious upbringing
Voice of The Child In Parenting Plans
According to the Children’s Act, children must be consulted to express their preferences regarding living arrangements, visitation, special occasions, and other pertinent matters. The extent of their involvement depends on their age.
Reviewing And Mediating Parenting Plans
Regular review of the plan is essential to adapt to the child’s developmental needs and changing circumstances. Mediation plays a critical role in helping parents reach an agreement on various aspects of parenting after separation or divorce.
The Importance of Parenting Plans – Final Thoughts
The importance of parenting plans should not be underestimated they are crucial in divorce or separation proceedings, underscoring the importance of addressing children’s needs promptly.
A mediator can assist you with creating a parenting plan centred around your child’s best interests, visit our page on parenting plan mediation to understand the benefits of mediation.
If you have any questions about parenting plans, reach out to us – we’re here to help.
Co-parenting, it’s not a competition between two homes, it’s a collaboration of parents doing what is best for the kids —
Heather Hetchler