Parenting today is much different than it was in previous generations. More often than not, both parents play active roles in the rearing of their children. This can make child custody matters particularly difficult in the event of a divorce. It is not uncommon for both parents to want to retain this level of involvement but to disagree on the best parenting styles. Regardless of a parent’s preferred style of parenting, it is important for both to maintain a few consistent boundaries across households to help better ensure a smooth transition into post-divorce life for the children.
Parents who find themselves navigating this issue are wise to take a few steps to help with this transition. Three specific steps that are beneficial for most divorces include the following.
#1: Understand how child custody works in Texas
The first step is to understand how the law treats the issue. Texas law refers to child custody as conservatorship and generally names the parents as joint managing conservators. This means the state favors having both parents share the decision making responsibilities after they finalize the divorce.
#2: Know the importance of maintaining boundaries
While Texas law sets the framework for custody arrangements, it generally does not dictate the minutiae of daily parenting styles within each household. Parents can include some general expectations within the parenting plan, but it is important to keep in mind that each household will likely have a different parenting style. Whether a helicopter or free-range parenting style is preferred, all can benefit from having a few clear boundaries that are consistent between households. Common examples can include basic rules and expectations regarding homework, bedtime routines, and screen time. Establishing these boundaries can reduce confusion and provide a sense of stability and security for the children involved.
While cohesiveness is important, each parent should respect the other’s unique parenting style within the agreed-upon boundaries. This balance helps children adapt to life in two homes.
#3: Learn the legal limitations on parenting decisions
Decisions about schooling and medical care will likely require joint agreement if parents share legal custody while questions regarding religious and cultural matters are a bit more open to interpretation unless specifically addressed within the custody order. While Texas law provides a framework for custody and decision-making, much of the day-to-day parenting is left to the discretion of each parent. Parents who can focus on their children’s best interests and maintain agreed-upon boundaries can work together to help their children thrive, even in the aftermath of divorce.