1. FIRST SET GOOD EXAMPLES FOR YOUR CHILDREN

Everyone will remember these difficult times throughout their lifetime. Do your best. Keep your focus on the children. Ask yourself, “Is what I am about to do or say going to be helpful.” It is important for your children to remember their parents working together to keep them safe, happy and healthy.

2. BE HEALTHY

Comply with all government guidelines and the Centers for Disease Control. The best place to look for information is at https://www.cdc.gov/ . Avoid social media information and other sources of information which is unreliable.  Model good behavior for your children with thorough hand washing, wiping down hard surfaces with disinfectant and other objects frequently touched, and maintaining the new term “social distancing.” Please know handwashing is for 20 seconds which is a long time. Look at your watch so you wash long enough. Most of us rinse our hands, we do not wash for the required time to be safe. 

2. BE HONEST AND CALM

Let your child know that things will get better. Be calm. Be honest. Keep your comments truthful and age appropriate. Avoid adult conversations in front of children. Adult conversations are only for adults and the children may be spying on their parents or overhearing. By letting the children watch news 24/7 it creates a destabilizing or weakening effect on them. Encourage your children to ask questions and tell you their thoughts and feelings. Answer them truthfully. If you or your children have been exposed to the virus inform the other parent so safety and health care measures can be put in place.

3. COURT ORDERS AND AGREEMENTS.

Try to avoid changing the timesharing you have exercised routinely. Try to avoid arguments by trying to change the timesharing agreement or court order. By following your normal routine, it should help to prevent conflict negative for children.  Even though schools are closed temporarily timesharing should remain the same. This is more stabilizing or calming for the children because it is consistent.

4. BE FLEXIBLE AND UNDERSTANDING

Some things will change based upon employment including time available for timesharing and finances. Some parents may have to work more, and some parents will be working less. If you are the paying parent, try to pay something for support even though you may have less income. If you are the recipient be understanding.  Video conferencing by Skype, FaceTime, and other web conferencing technology is a great way to maintain connection with your children between both homes.

5. PROVIDE MAKE-UP TIME

Under Florida Law a parent denied timesharing is entitled to make-up time. Be generous with your make up time.