According to the decree, my ex-husband gets seven weeks visitation with the kids (5 & 6) in the summer. They live with me in small town, he lives almost 2000 miles away. He refuses to have any interrupted visitation, ie. seven weeks in three equal increments (I would pay travel) Is the above schedule appropriate for the emotional development of the kids, given their age? Basically, would it totally stress them out to be away from their Mama for so long or would it be OK? I can deal, can they? Should they?
2007-03-23 14:33:41 · 7 answers · asked by Mos 3 in Health ➔ Mental Health
It depends on the kids of course, but most kids that age would be fine staying with their other parent for that long. I think it would be a lot more stressful for them to travel back and forth for three separate visits (especially if they'll be flying by themselves) than it will be for them to stay for that long. If it does turn out that they can't handle it, then you and your ex- can work something out yourselves or go to court again, but they'll probably be fine.
Of course it would be better for the kids if they could have both their parents in their life without having to travel like that. But given that you and your ex- couldn't give them that, they're stuck with a seven week visit, and they'll probably learn to deal with it. It's definitely not in their best interest to be fought over, or to be the subject of a power struggle between their parents.
2007-03-23 16:29:41 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
I am not sure if I am understanding this correctly. He wants to have them for seven weeks straight - but you would rather split the seven weeks up into 3 increments?
Talk to the children and prepare them for the time they will be away. Make a schedule for calling you and maybe give them some things (pictures, objects) that will remind them of your love and make them feel safe. I guess there is not much you can do about mandated visits. Just remind your ex that everything that you guys plan out should be in the best interest of the kids. Good luck.
2007-03-23 21:47:05 · answer #2 · answered by chic-chik 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
That is too long and too far. Go back to court and have the decree amended. Who moved away from whom? Why would you take your kids so far away from their father when they are so young. It sounds like you too are mistreating these children by using them as tools in your own cruel head games.
KIDS COME FIRST!
2007-03-23 21:42:59 · answer #3 · answered by seeker100 3 · 0⤊ 1⤋
It's part of the custody agreement, so you don't have a choice. Now, when they go, if they have a hard time (don't project) then you can go back to court and ask to have the schedule revised.
2007-03-23 21:41:07 · answer #4 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
that seems like a long time for kids so young. there will be some major adjustment when they get to their dad's place and then when they return to you. Just be prepared.
2007-03-23 21:45:13 · answer #5 · answered by courage78 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
i say, give it a try and see what happens. they are away from dad even longer which can be stressful for them too. Let them enjoy dad for awhile. Meanwhile you can pamper yourself, i'm sure you deserve it mom!
2007-03-23 21:43:49 · answer #6 · answered by angela t 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I would think so........my step children did that and it was hard on them and they were a little older than yours are
2007-03-23 21:43:19 · answer #7 · answered by Lost Angel 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋