Divorce is hard enough on its own, but parents of special needs children in Washington have even more to consider when splitting up and deciding on child custody matters. What is the right way to handle such a unique complication?
Medical Home Portal examines considerations to bear in mind regarding special needs children of divorcing parents. The only way divorcing parents can do what is best for their children is if they have the right information.
Custody and visitation
When it comes to deciding on visitation with a special needs child, it may prove beneficial to focus on a stable setting, routine and schedule. That means parents may want to schedule longer visitations, so sudden changes in the environment do not become too jarring for a special needs child.
Education
Divorcing parents should also consider how special education classes fit in their child custody arrangements. For instance, parents of special needs students often help craft their child’s education plan. Certain aspects of the plan may impact the student’s home life.
Childcare
Special needs kids may require unique childcare, which calls for special custody considerations. Parents could want to ensure the same caregiver takes care of their child at both homes. Just like with visitation, establishing and sticking to a childcare routine often works in the child’s favor.
Recreational and social involvement
Just as it can prove challenging to find extracurricular activities that cater to special needs children, parents must consider how to work out transportation and overall scheduling for activities in their child custody agreement.
This information is only intended to educate and should not be interpreted as legal advice.
