Should We Include Phone Calls or Video Chats in a Parenting Plan?

Creating a well-structured parenting plan is key when parents are moving apart from one another. Whether you are divorcing or separating, a plan ensures stability and clear expectations for both parents and children.

And as you transition from one house to two homes, recognize that while communication between a child and a parent is important, unstructured or excessive contact that steps on the other’s parent time can create conflict. Because of this, you may want to consider including phone calls or video chats in a parenting plan agreement. Talk to a Port St. Lucie family law attorney about how to foster a balanced co-parenting dynamic.

How to Include Communication Guidelines

A parenting plan is a legal document that outlines how parents will share responsibilities and make decisions regarding their child’s upbringing. It typically includes time-sharing schedules and decision-making responsibilities for education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities. A well-crafted parenting plan provides clarity, reduces disputes, and prioritizes the child’s well-being by maintaining consistency in their routine.

Including provisions for phone and video communication in a parenting plan can be beneficial, as it allows all parents to maintain a bond with the child while their kid is staying with their other parent. That said, unplanned calls can disrupt family time.

Folding planned phone or video calls into your routine today can prevent future conflicts. This could be done with one or more of the following guidelines.

• Setting a schedule. Establishing specific times for calls ensures predictability and prevents unnecessary interruptions. For example, calls could be scheduled for evenings or after school.
• Defining duration of calls. Setting limits on how long calls should last can prevent excessive disruptions and help maintain the child’s routine.
• Allowing flexibility. While structure is important, allowing for some flexibility ensures that children can reach out to the other parent in emergencies or special circumstances.

Some also find it helpful to include language in the parenting plan agreement about how missed calls will be handled. For instance, if one or both parents regularly travel for work they may not always be available on a particular day at a set time. Then, you may want to outline alternative times for rescheduling missed calls. Everyone has their own preferences, and each plan needs to address the specific concerns of the family. What works for you may not work for someone else and vice versa.

Give Your Priorities Careful Thought

If you are a parent moving away from your spouse, you do not have to launch the parenting plan development process on your own. A Port St. Lucie family law attorney can walk you through the process of drafting a thoughtful parenting plan. Taking the time to negotiate a solid agreement will assist in preventing conflicts and setting clear expectations.

Could you benefit from including phone or video chat guidelines in a parenting plan? Working with the legal team at Baginski, Brandt & Brandt ensures that your divorce agreement is fair, comprehensive, and legally sound. When you are ready for expert guidance and support, contact us to schedule an appointment.