Being a teenager is difficult. Most adults, if given the opportunity to go back to their teenage years for a do-over, would say no thank you. People are happy to move on from that awkward stage in life. Divorcing parents of teens in the state of Massachusetts need to remember what it was like being that age when dealing with child custody issues. More problems are likely to arise not only when creating parenting plans but when carrying them out — why?
Teenagers have a lot to deal with on a daily basis, just like everyone else. However, at that phase of life, when trying to gain a sense of self and becoming independent, accepting what one’s parents do is not likely to come easy. Teenagers are not shy about speaking their minds. They will likely have a lot to say about how child custody should work and complain if their parents struggle with co-parenting.
Here are a few things parents of teens need to remember. The state of Massachusetts allows teenagers to have a say in their custody arrangements. Their wishes may not be accepted, but at least they will know they were heard. Coordinating schedules, providing consistent advice and keeping the lines of communication open can go a long way in keeping a teen happy. Co-parenting is just easier when everyone is on the same page or is willing to make adjustments as they are needed.
Figuring out a child custody agreement that is good for one’s family can take time, especially if a teenager is giving his or her input on how it should work out or is giving parents a hard time because he or she is unhappy about the divorce situation in general. With the assistance of legal counsel, it is possible to create parenting plans that fit one’s unique needs. If changes are necessary down the line, further help in modifying a custody order can be provided.
