Co-parenting means that after a divorce, both parents play an equal role in the upbringing and care of their child. The child spends approximately equal time with both parents in Rijswijk or the surrounding area.
What does co-parenting entail?
In co-parenting in Rijswijk:
- Both parents share parental authority over the child
- The child resides approximately equally divided with both parents
- Both parents take joint responsibility for the care
- Important decisions are made jointly
Types of co-parenting arrangements
| Arrangement | Description |
|---|---|
| Weekly schedule | The child alternates weekly between both parents |
| Partial weeks | For example, beginning of the week with one parent, weekend with the other |
| 2-2-3 model | Two days with parent 1, two days with parent 2, three days alternating |
| Birdnesting concept | Child stays in one home, parents rotate |
Conditions for successful co-parenting
Co-parenting often succeeds better in Rijswijk if:
- Parents communicate effectively and reach compromises
- The distance between parents' homes is limited
- Both parents have sufficient time and resources
- The child copes well with two residences
- There is room for adjustments in unexpected situations
Cost sharing in co-parenting
In a co-parenting arrangement, expenses are often shared:
- Each parent pays the costs in their own home
- Joint expenses (such as education or hobbies) are divided
- Child support may be low or absent due to offsetting
- Child benefit is paid to one parent, with possible mutual adjustment
Pros and cons of co-parenting
| Advantages | Challenges |
|---|---|
| Child maintains contact with both parents | Frequent switching can be burdensome for the child |
| Care burdens are fairly divided | Good coordination between parents is essential |
| Balance in parental involvement | Logistics can be complex (e.g., distance in Rijswijk) |
Is co-parenting feasible for toddlers and preschoolers?
For children under 3 years old, it is often advised to spend more time with one parent due to attachment needs. As they get older, a more equal division can be introduced.Can a judge impose co-parenting?
No, a judge cannot impose co-parenting if one parent refuses. However, an extensive contact arrangement can be established that resembles co-parenting.What happens to child benefit in co-parenting?
Child benefit is paid to one parent. Parents in Rijswijk can agree to divide this amount or offset it through mutual agreements.Frequently asked questions about co-parenting in Rijswijk
How do I make co-parenting official?In Rijswijk, you can record co-parenting in a parenting plan, which you draft together and have approved by the District Court of The Hague. This plan contains agreements on care, costs, and decisions. In case of disagreement, the judge can impose an arrangement. A mediator can assist in creating a practical and fair plan, for example via the Legal Aid Office Rijswijk. How do I determine child support in co-parenting?
In co-parenting, a cost offsetting is often applied. Parents bear the costs themselves during the child's stay. Joint expenses such as school fees are divided. The parent with a higher income can contribute. Use guidelines from the Nibud and seek advice from a specialist in Rijswijk. What to do if my ex does not comply with the agreements?
Try an open conversation first. If that fails, involve a mediator. For persistent problems, you can ask the District Court of The Hague to enforce it. Document violations carefully and consider legal advice via the Legal Aid Office Rijswijk. How do I explain co-parenting to my child?
Be open and reassuring. Explain that both parents love the child and that the child has a home with both. Make clear that the child did nothing wrong. Use tools like a schedule to show switching days and give the child space to adjust to the situation. Can I end co-parenting if it doesn't work?
Yes, co-parenting is not mandatory. If it does not function, you can agree on another arrangement together. In case of disagreement, a request for modification can be filed with the District Court of The Hague, which decides based on the child's best interests.