Parents who live in the same home are increasingly complaining about being exhausted by their kid’s sports schedules. When the parents are separated, these frustrations increase exponentially. Yes, it’s a challenge, but it can be done. And it’s definitely worth it for the sake of your children.
Co-Parenting and Sports
Judges often hear disputes from parents about having to either support or juggle the sports commitments of children. In some cases, one parent supports the activity, and the other doesn’t. Even when both parents support playing sports, making this work can be challenging.
In successful situations, parents have agreed in advance that children can participate in certain extra activities and that they will be given as much support as possible. In the end, co-parenting is about both working together and being flexible. When children want to play sports, parents need to team up as well.
Who Does What?
Remember, your child just wants to play sports and would rather that there weren’t any tension between their parents, on or off the field. This isn’t about you or your ex, but rather about your child and their happiness.
When it comes to your child’s sports activities, you and your ex will need to make decisions related to:
- Who is going to pay for what equipment for which sport?
- Sports are a massive commitment of time and resources. You’ll need to agree on who is going to drive your child to and from practice and any other required events.
- Will both parents attend every game or will you agree to alternate? If you both plan to attend competitions, you should discuss etiquette in advance. For example, will you sit together or apart? Being civil in this setting is essential to your child’s wellbeing.
Put It in Your Parenting Plan
You may not always know that your child is going to become heavily involved in sports when you get divorced. As children grow older, their interests and demands change. Anything that could create a financial or time conflict between you and your ex should be included in your parenting plan.
When you get divorced, you can outline the specifics about child custody and support. You may also need to make modifications to this plan at a later date if there are material changes that warrant them.
If you are thinking about filing for divorce and have minor children, there is a lot to consider. While co-parenting may bring some challenges, it’s not impossible and can become a rewarding experience over time.
Divorce is challenging enough without having to fight every tiny battle in front of a judge. If you and your spouse can reach an agreement on major issues, you may qualify for an uncontested divorce. MicroDivorce offers affordable, quick, and easy service for uncontested divorce in Oklahoma.