While many infants born in Texas live with both parents, there are situations in which relationships end before or soon after a child is born. In these situations, child custody and visitation issues are often a significant concern.
Infants have unique needs that must be respected as parents strive to work out a reasonable parenting plan. There is a process of adjustment for both parent and child as they bond. In addition, new parents are generally under a significant amount of stress as they adapt to an infant’s schedule and learn how to meet their child’s needs. This stress can intensify if only one parent is providing primary care for a child.
Still, most experts agree that it is essential for both parents to establish a strong relationship with the child. This is true even if the parents do not get along well. In situations where a parent has primary custody of an infant, it is generally recommended that the noncustodial parent seek frequent visits throughout the week. Successful co-parenting after a divorce can sometimes seem an impossible goal, but it can be done.
Breastfeeding is also a consideration in situations where new parents do not live together. While it is true that breastfeeding is generally considered to be a superior source of nutrition for children, the need for a child to maintain strong ties to a non-breast-feeding parent must be taken into consideration. In many situations, women who are breast-feeding their children may be able to pump breast milk that can be frozen and bottle-fed to the child during visitation.
Individuals who are concerned about child custody issues may benefit from speaking with an experienced family law attorney. A lawyer may be able to review the client’s current circumstances and make recommendations regarding the development of a parenting plan that respects an infant’s needs while also accommodating the schedules and circumstances of the child’s parents.
