Co-Parenting at Different Ages: 3 to 5-Year-Olds

Co-parenting isn’t the same for every child, primarily because of their needs at each stage of development. In the third installment of our series about co-parenting children at different ages, we’ll take a closer look at children between the ages of 3 and 5 and how the arrangement should change. What do you need to know about co-parenting a preschool-age child with your former partner? Here are a few thoughts to get you started. 

Keep Consistent Routines

As with babies and toddlers, preschoolers function best with regular routines. It’s helpful to provide them equal time with each parent if possible. They should also keep a schedule regardless of which household they’re in. Go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Plan meals to have regular mealtimes as well. 

Prepare for Adjustment when Transitioning Households

Preschoolers are going through a lot of emotional growth. This is especially noticeable when they’re transitioning between households. It’s not uncommon for your 3 to 5 year old to become upset when they’re relocating from one place to the other. However, once they settle in, they’ll be more engaged and happy. Prepare for this adjustment when making the transition. 

Plan for Preschool and Social Enrichment

This age group functions best when they have plenty of social interaction with their peers. They particularly need time with other children their age and away from parents. Enrolling them in preschool or other enrichment programs is an excellent way to provide them with this necessary developmental experience. 

Provide Reassurance 

Preschoolers are very intuitive, and they may misinterpret some emotional cues. They are at an age where they can feel responsible for the breakup of their parents but not know how to deal with that or express it. Always reassure your child that they are not responsible and be positive about their time with the other parents. 

Create a Plan for Dealing with Conflict

At this age, 3- to 5-year-olds are susceptible to anger and frustration. Seeing their parents argue will have a significant impact on their development. Have a plan in place to deal with disagreements constructively and away from your child, so they’re not exposed to conflict.  

Talk to an Experienced Family Law Attorney

Before you and your partner make any agreement regarding the co-parenting of your preschooler, talk to a family lawyer to better understand your rights. 

We are Georgia divorce and child custody attorneys. This is all we have done since 1995. We can help. If you need help or have any questions, we would be happy to speak with you via email, text, or phone. Check us out at www.shawlaw.com.

Scott Shaw
Shaw Law Firm, PC
(770) 594-8309 (phone)
(678) 522-4799 (text)
[email protected]