Parenting

Parenting involves providing love, guidance, structure, and care, while adapting to a child’s changing needs at every stage of life. Effective parenting prioritizes the child’s well-being, fosters trust and communication, and helps them grow into confident, responsible individuals.

Parenting
Parenting Time Is Important
Parenting time is the term used for the time a child spends with each parent when parents do not live in the same household. In Michigan, a child has a right to parenting time with each parent unless a judge determines that parenting time would endanger the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health.
Parenting Time Order
A parenting time order determines when a child spends time with each parent. Parenting time orders are not always a “one size fits all” since not all families are the same. It is always best if parents can work out when parenting time will occur since parents know when they work, what activities their child has, and other details that impact parenting time.
Michigan Law
Michigan law recognizes that it is generally in a child’s best interest to have parenting time in a frequency, duration, and type that promotes a strong relationship between a child and parent. See MCL 722.27a.
Parenting Time Consistency

Raising a child in separate homes can be challenging. It can also intensify any differences in parenting and disciplinary styles. Sticking to a schedule helps provide predictability and consistency for the child and the parents. It will also provide both parents the opportunity to be actively involved with their child. A close relationship with both parents can benefit a child’s development, academic success, and overall mental health.

Additional information about parenting time considerations can be found at the Michigan Parenting Time Guidelines.