Co-parenting during Covid

As if parenting was not difficult enough for parents who are separated or divorced, the pandemic has only made it more difficult. As a divorce mediator, I have already seen the issues surface. What follows are some common sense suggestions.

If possible, change the child’s schedule to have less transitions for the child. Such a temporary measure will result in more social distancing between the parents’ households.

Suppress any impulse not to tell the other parent if your child has been exposed to a person with symptoms. Sure, the other parent may jump all over you, but the key is to be transparent and make sure the child is OK. Of course, if you or the child shows symptoms, you must inform the other parent immediately.

If one parent cannot physically see the child due to Covid issues, be generous and make sure that the parent receives enhanced video and phone contact with the child.

The Family Courts are open but very understaffed. Restrain yourself from running off to court for every issue. This crisis will come to an end some day and I believe judges will remember who tried to take advantage during this time.

I have already experienced issues where a parent claims online learning somehow changes the existent court order. This is incorrect. Unless the parties agree otherwise, current court orders remain in effect. The pandemic does not change the presumption by the courts that the child needs contract with each parent.

If you wish to schedule an initial consultation, please contact me at 212-605-0435 or 516-510-7717.