Divorce trends come and go, but some become common practices because of how beneficial they are. Although some people scoff at the concept of birdnesting because it can be stressful for parents and expensive, it can be an excellent solution for some families.
Birdnesting is an arrangement where the children remain in the family home after divorce to facilitate stability during shared custody arrangements. The parents either create separate living spaces in the home or obtain a residence outside and then alternate living in the family home when it is their parenting time.
Why would that kind of shared custody arrangement benefit the children?
Birdnesting and minimizes the changes in their lives
Divorce can be a devastating experience for children. They may feel uncertain about their relationships with their parents. Some kids feel guilty, believing they may have contributed to the decline of their parents’ marriage. Other children become depressed or angry.
The more disruptive and contentious a divorce is, the harder it will be on the children. Birdnesting minimizes the disruption to their life by allowing them to live in the same house, maintain the same social connections and stay at the same school. It can also help parents develop a better co-parenting relationship and reduce conflict after the divorce.
Birdnesting can be a more expensive solution than traditional custody-sharing arrangements, but if your family can make it work, then it may be beneficial for you. A birdnesting arrangement can be especially beneficial for families with many children, a special needs child or children who attend a school district with few nearby housing options.
Exploring all of the options for shared custody can help you protect your children during this difficult time.
