What is a parenting plan?

What is a parenting plan?

A parenting plan is a collaborative document that outlines the agreements between both parents on how they will exercise their parental rights and responsibilities after separating. The document is usually created with the assistance of a neutral third party, such as a social worker. It is customized to meet the specific needs of the child/children and family. The parenting plan includes details such as where the child/children will live, how decisions will be made about education, health, and welfare, and how much time the child/children will spend with each parent. 

A parenting plan aims to reduce conflict and stress between the parents while ensuring that the child/children’s best interests are always prioritized. By collaborating to create the parenting plan, parents can work towards a peaceful and fair resolution that benefits both the child/children and the family. The parenting plan can be registered with the Family Advocate or made an order of court to give it legal weight. The plan can be modified as the child/children’s needs change over time.

Mediation of a parenting plan

The mediator creates a safe and neutral environment where both parents can openly discuss and negotiate the terms of the parenting plan. The mediator encourages both parents to communicate their thoughts and concerns and assists in identifying areas of agreement and disagreement. The mediator’s role is to facilitate the conversation rather than impose their opinions or take sides. Mediators are trained to work with high-conflict families and use various techniques to help manage emotions and keep discussions on track. 

In South Africa, mediation is often required before parents can take their disputes to court. Mediation can provide a less adversarial, more cost-effective alternative to resolving disputes compared to taking the matter to court. Mediation also allows parents to retain more control over the outcome of their dispute, rather than having a judge make decisions that could impact their lives and their children’s lives for years to come. Overall, mediation can be an effective way for parents to work through their differences and create a parenting plan that prioritizes the best interests of their children.

Maintain relationships with family and mediate today!