Child Custody and Extra-Curricular Activities

Murphy & Dunn P.C.

We cannot micro-manage every single thing that could ever happen in real life. There is no court Order, or no Judge or Attorney that can cover each and every issue that might come up. That is why parents need to work together at least a little bit to help raise their children post divorce, regardless of who has custody.

One issue that frequently comes up is the issue of kids school and extra-curricular activities. What to do about them, and what is a reasonable number of activities. First, there is no right answer. Each child has unique gifts and talents and both parents need to allow their children to blossom and grow in whatever direction they might go. Some kids love sports, others band or music. Some excel in theater, some not. Whatever your child does, it should be reasonable and include input from both parents if possible. If you get both parents on board with the activity, it is likely they will cooperate with same, go to the events, take the child to practices, etc. If you ram the activity down the other parent's throat, it usually means missed practices and games, or missed visitation. These are all problems that can be avoided if both parents talk to each other and treat each other with respect.

It truly is all about perception. If you think the other parent is doing what is best for your child, you will work together. If you think the other parent is trying to interfere with your time or visitation, or with your relationship with your child, you will not get along. Try the first way first. Cooperation and communication are the key. Children just want to love you both and get along. They just want to participate in their fun activity. They just want to be kids. Stay out of their way and watch them shine.

Murphy & Dunn, P.C.

gedwardmurphy@gmail.com
www.murphy-dunn.com