Our children are an integral part of our lives and keeping them safe and feeling secure is what parenting is all about. Parenting together after divorce presents new challenges to an already difficult process, but navigating painful emotions to maintain a united front is an essential part of the job. The bottom line is, kids feel healthiest when their parents get along.

Amid the spread of COVID-19, we are all facing unprecedented times. As this pandemic continues, regulations regarding safe practices change daily. One thing on the mind of separated and divorced parents is how they can continue their usual parenting plan in the midst of this very contagious virus.

As the CDC guidelines and state mandates change from day to day, it is so important to communicate with your co-parent. Try to come to an agreement as to the safe practices that you will each maintain in your homes for the safety of your children, yourselves and other family members living in each home.

Family law disputes such as divorce, child custody, visitation, and spousal support discussions are often emotional and can be stressful. When two parties cannot agree, they may believe taking their case to court is the only option. However, litigation is expensive, emotionally draining and can be a very lengthy process. Additionally, the courtroom environment empowers the judge to make decisions instead of allowing the two parties involved to decide what is best.

Seven guidelines for parents who are divorced, separated, and sharing custody of children during the Covid-19 pandemic.