Tips for Co-Parenting During COVID-19

BE FLEXIBLE & UNDERSTANDING

During this challenging coronavirus pandemic, now is a good time to be more flexible, understanding and accommodating with your former spouse, as doing so is in the best interest of your child. Work with your co-parent to create a plan to address potential scheduling or financial issues that may arise as schools, as well as many businesses, close or cut back on staff. Parents receiving child support should be mindful of the situation and do their best to help create solutions instead of causing additional stress or hardship. Keep in mind that if you are unreasonable and attempt to prevent your co-parent from spending time with their child during this unprecedented time, family law judges will take this matter seriously if concerns are raised in later filings.

ENCOURAGE PARENTAL BONDING

While it can be a stressful environment with children out of school and many parents working from home, take advantage of the opportunity to enjoy more quality time with your children and build a stronger bond. Encourage closeness by planning a game night together, watching movies and even video chatting with the parent who is not able to be present. How you react in a time of crisis is something your children will remember, so do your best to remain calm, positive and ensure them that things will improve in the near future.

Schiller DuCanto & Fleck LLP is committed to continuously providing excellent client service, which is why all three of our offices in Chicago, Lake Forest and Wheaton, Ill. will remain open. We are monitoring the situation closely and are available to provide courthouse updates and answer your questions or concerns. We wish you and your family good health during this difficult time.