Managing Child Illness During Custody Exchanges
Here in Rhode Island, we are in the middle of cold and flu season, now complicated by concerns about the Wuhan coronavirus. While the coronavirus deserves attention, your children are still more likely to catch the flu. We hope you and your children received flu shots at the start of the season, but many other viruses can leave your child sick for several days.
So what happens when either you or your child gets sick at the time to transition homes under your Rhode Island custody agreement? An illness can disrupt a custody schedule, making it important to have a backup plan in place.
Be Willing to Adapt and Adjust
Start by considering the child’s age and the severity of the illness. Very young children need constant care when sick, while older children may require less attention. Many parents use the guideline that if a child is well enough to attend school, they are well enough to move between homes. Both parents should agree on what counts as “well enough.”
The same principle can apply to a sick parent. If a parent cannot go to work due to illness, the other parent may need to care for the child longer than usual. A parent with the flu will likely struggle to care for children, especially very young ones.
Parents should also consider the distance between homes. A long drive during a child’s illness, such as over an hour, may worsen symptoms or discomfort. Shorter trips are easier, but both parents should remain flexible at the time to transition homes. Adapting schedules and expectations during illness helps prioritize the child’s best interests.
Establish Clear Communication
Clear communication between co-parents is essential when a child is sick. Both parents should share details about prescribed medications, including dosages and timing. Over-the-counter treatments should also be communicated. For example, if one parent gives a fever reducer, they should inform the other parent to avoid double dosing when it is time to transition homes.
Rhode Island Custody Attorneys
Handling a sick child during custody exchanges can be challenging. Some parents include a “sick contingency” in their parenting plan to address missed parenting time. If you have questions about managing custody when your child is ill, contact the experienced Rhode Island custody attorneys at Inman & Tourgee Attorneys at Law. We can help you navigate these situations and ensure your parenting plan works for both parents and children.
