Receiving an autism diagnosis can be a major shock for a child’s parents and legal guardians. One of the first things to consider is finding the best treatment to ensure the child’s development and quality of life.
However, parents often neglect secondary issues that are just as important as their children’s treatment. A parenting plan aims to align and define these secondary issues, which will help with children’s daily lives and parents’ decision-making. Here are four important points to consider and ensure consistency in your parenting plan:
Visitation arrangements. An important topic to address, especially if the parents are divorced, is the length of time spent with each parent and close relatives. Visitation arrangements should take into account the child’s circumstances and dynamics and be designed and implemented organically.
Medical treatments. Another important issue to consider is the medical treatments and even the medical professionals your child will receive. It’s also important to determine which hospital should be prioritized in case of emergencies.
Choosing a school. Choosing a school that meets your child’s needs is crucial. However, for some reason, a change may be necessary. In this case, it’s a good idea for parents to clearly define the criteria they will use when choosing an educational institution.
Responsible in case of parental absence. Finally, considering someone to assume responsibilities in case of parental absence is an act of love that few people consider. Parental absence isn’t necessarily due to death, but it could be due to a temporary health issue, such as hospitalization. In such situations, having someone already designated to take care of the child is crucial. Talk to close friends and family who can contribute to this mission.
In addition to the points above, the parenting plan can address several other topics. Reflecting and thinking about solutions in advance can prevent conflicts and problems in the future.
