Parenting plan adjustments: When a child’s health declines

Although most children remain relatively healthy during the years before they reach the age of majority, many kids struggle in this regard. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “In the United States, more than 40% of school-aged children and adolescents have at least one chronic health condition.” 

When a child’s health declines – and that child is co-parented by adults who are no longer together – it often becomes necessary to adjust an existing parenting plan to better facilitate that child’s well-being. If you and your child’s other parent find yourself in this situation, consider the following as you work to modify your parenting plan accordingly. 

What does your child need from your approach?

A child’s declining health may result in a need for additional medical appointments, therapies or specialized care, which can affect the original schedule and responsibilities outlined in your parenting plan. You and your co-parent will need to communicate openly about what changes are necessary to accommodate your child’s new health needs. For example, you may find that you need to prioritize flexibility right now, as they may need a specific kind of support that cannot be adequately provided for by your current approach. 

Say that one parent has better access to medical facilities or is more familiar with your child’s medical care, it may make sense to adjust your parenting time schedule temporarily or permanently. Some children with serious health conditions may require more frequent visits to specialists, and the parent who is more available to manage these appointments may take on a larger role. 

Courts in many states can modify custody arrangements if a child’s health significantly changes. This is true regardless of whether your co-parent agrees with the need for such modifications or not. Seeking legal guidance can help you to make informed decisions unique to your child’s evolving circumstances.