When Washington parents with young children divorce, they often struggle with making decisions about where to live and what to do with the family home. Kids usually do well with as little upheaval as possible after their parents split up. Moving to a new home and splitting time between one parent’s home and the other can make children feel unsettled, which is why most parents attempt to foster a custody situation that provides stability. One unconventional custody option that you may want to try is bird nesting.
What is bird nesting?
Bird nesting is a unique approach to habitation after a divorce. It involves the children living in one home while the parents alternate time living with the children. You can do this in several different ways. When financially feasible, the parents may choose to keep the family home, while each one rents a separate apartment for their time away from the kids. Another option is to have two residences where the parents simply go back and forth while the children remain at the primary residence.
It’s important to note that bird nesting works best when a couple leaves the relationship on good terms. If you wish to try this method of cohabitation, it’s important to communicate well with your ex. This can be a good temporary approach to helping kids adapt to the changing environment. Some couples may wish to keep this arrangement long-term, but it can be financially straining over time.
Working out the logistics
For bird nesting to be successful, you must work with your ex to decide on rules, timing and other logistical matters. Consider how you wish to deal with potential new partners and whether you will allow them to visit the primary home. Defining how the bills will be paid in the primary home and how things like groceries and other household expenses will be dealt with is important. Be sure you’re on the same page as your ex since this type of arrangement will require a lot of compromise.
When following the bird nesting approach, flexibility is helpful to keep the primary home running smoothly. Parents may need to adjust their initially agreed-upon schedule over time or in specific circumstances when something unexpected comes up. Overall, it’s important to approach this process with an open mind if you want to succeed.
Seek legal help during divorce
No matter the circumstances of your divorce, you can benefit from working with a professional. They can help you prepare for the decisions you must make. Child custody matters are often contentious, even in amicable divorces, so it’s helpful to have someone knowledgeable of Washington’s divorce laws on your side.