How to Balance Work Schedules and Child Time Sharing in Orlando

The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that in most American families with married parents, both of the parents work. After a divorce in Orlando, both parents may want to continue with their careers for obvious reasons. Not only does regular work provide critical income, but it may also provide a sense of purpose during a difficult time. However, child time sharing can be challenging when both parents work full-time. What are some strategies for parents navigating this issue?

Consider Mediation to Create Effective Child Time Sharing Schedules

 Even if parents feel bitter or resentful about the end of their relationship, they may still benefit from mediation. Compared to a full-on child custody trial, this process allows for more flexible arrangements that serve everyone’s best interests. In contrast, a judge might order parents to adhere to a difficult schedule that puts both of their careers in jeopardy.

Mediation involves private, collaborative discussions about the most appropriate time sharing schedules. Parents can discuss their specific work schedules, babysitting options, and other factors as they create the most appropriate agreement. As with a court order, this agreement is legally binding once approved.

Consider Which Parent Works a More Demanding Job

 Although both parents might work, one might have a more demanding schedule than the other. For example, one parent might work part-time while the other may work full-time. In this scenario, it may help to divide custody around work weeks and weekends.

The parent with the more demanding schedule might have custody during the weekends (including Friday evening). The parent with the less demanding schedule could take the child during the week. Remember, the parent who works full-time in this scenario would likely pay child support to the other parent. This highlights the need for parents to help each other maintain their careers – even if childcare duties are divided unequally.

Consider Childcare and Babysitting Options

 Although they can be costly, babysitting and other childcare options may be necessary for parents who both have full-time careers. Remember, your child should be supervised throughout the day if they are old enough to attend school (assuming they’re not homeschooled). You may be able to extend this by encouraging your child to attend after-school, extra-curricular activities – such as sports, music, or dance. At a certain age, your child may be able to take public transit (or Uber) home without needing to be picked up.

Can an Orlando Child Time Sharing Lawyer Help Me? 

A child time sharing lawyer in Orlando may be able to help you navigate the challenges of childcare with two working parents. Although this scenario might seem complex at first, various schedules can allow both parents to continue with their careers while spending plenty of time with children. For further guidance on this subject, consider speaking with Steve Marsee, P.A.

Sources: 

bls.gov/news.release/famee.nr0.htm#:~:text=At%20least%20one%20parent%20was,families%20both%20parents%20were%20employed.

floridarevenue.com/childsupport/parenting_time_plans/Pages/default.aspx