Preparing a Sample Parenting Plan for Mediation

Mediation services can be a valuable tool to bring you and the other parent together in a low-conflict environment to create a parenting plan. Custody mediation is a series of meetings where a trained mediator works with both parties to reach an agreement.

In order to minimize the impact on children when creating separate households, parents must create a parenting plan that outlines how they will continue to work together to raise them. However, emotions and negative feelings can quickly get in the way of clear communication.

Using a mediator helps you and the other parent quickly reach a workable solution in everything from custody decisions to visitation schedules. Before you attend your first mediation session, create your own version of the parenting plan you'd like to see implemented.

Benefits of making a plan before mediation

Preparing a parenting plan for mediation offers several advantages.

• It gets you organized on what your thoughts and feelings are concerning the children.
• It lays out talking points for you and the other parent.
• It gives the mediator an idea of where you are coming from.

When you've had a chance to prepare a parenting plan before you go into mediation, you've identified areas where you will hold firm and areas where you can compromise. Create a few different versions of the documents to show your flexibility and outline what you are willing to agree to.

With a printed parenting plan in hand, the other parent and the mediator can actually see and understand what you envision for your children. This can help the mediation process go more smoothly and may even help you reach agreements more quickly.

Don't expect to have your sample parenting plan approved by the other parent as is. The idea is that the sample parenting plan you've prepared is the starting point for conversations about what is best for your children.

Together with a mediator, you can create a plan that works for all of you.

The easiest way to make a parenting plan

Creating a parenting plan on your own can feel overwhelming. You have to address all possible situations, while using airtight legal language.

Use technology to take the guesswork out of the equation. The Custody X Change app walks you through each step of creating a plan.

The result will be a professional document that demonstrates your competence as a parent and secures your child's future.

The easiest and most reliable way to make a parenting plan is with Custody X Change.