In practice shared parenting means;children spending ordinary and fun times with each parent;children sleeping, eating, working and playing in each home;each parent listening and talking to the children;the parents sharing the big decisions about the children's lives;each parent being involved in the children's schools, sport, music and other activities;each parent being fully aware of the physical, intellectual and emotional health of the children;children being part of two extended families grandparents, uncles and aunts, cousins, friends.
Shared parenting after separation is making sure that children spend large amounts of time in both homes with both parents and their extended families. It means that kids have both mother and father directly involved in the decisions and activities that contribute to their health, welfare and development.
Staying connected in meaningful relationships is what helps children survive family break-up and eventually thrive in their new family situation. Shared parenting is the best solution for children after separation and divorce. Children enjoy continued love and interaction with both parents and their extended families, and a lessening of emotional trauma due to family upheaval.
Please see our Links page for further information on children's welfare.