Divorcing parents must make decisions that are in the child’s best interests. And one such decision is where the child will live. You and your co-parent should choose a living arrangement that supports your child’s needs.
Here are three options to consider:
1. Bird nesting
Bird nesting, also called nesting, is a living arrangement that involves children remaining in the family home and then parents taking turns living in the home based on their child custody schedule. Basically, the co-parents have their separate houses but move in and out of the family home on a rotating basis.
This living arrangement minimizes disruption for the kids, as they don’t have to move out. Nonetheless, it’s important to have ground rules concerning housekeeping, expenses, discipline and visitors.
2. Move to separate homes
Co-parents can move to separate homes permanently after their divorce. You can both find new homes or one of you can remain in the family home while the other moves out. Your children will move between the two homes on a schedule.
If possible, the homes should not be very far from each other. It can be demanding for your child to travel for an hour during transition, especially if you have exchange days during school days.
3. All of you remain in the family home
Another co-parenting living arrangement to consider is all of you remaining in the family home. This is an affordable option and provides a sense of stability for the kids. It’s crucial to operate from different parts of the house, respect each other’s spaces and observe the child custody schedule.
This option is, in most cases, temporary while co-parents are finding another solution, but some are successfully using it as a permanent plan.
The appropriate living arrangement for your child after divorce heavily depends on the specifics of your case. Obtain more information to make informed decisions.
