When Texas parents get a divorce, they have to find ways to share custody of their children. Some go the traditional route and shuffle the kids from one home to the other, but it’s not always the best option. Nesting is a unique alternative that some might consider.
Nesting as a custody option
Nesting is different from the child custody norm: it involves remaining in the family home to keep things stable for the children. They stay put while the parents alternate their parenting time in the home. While one parent has their time in the family home, the other lives in a separate place.
Benefits of nesting
While nesting may not be appropriate for everyone, it carries notable benefits. Children are able to continue living in the home they’ve become accustomed to, which makes them comfortable and gives them stability. They are also able to keep attending the same schools and maintain friendships with other kids in the neighborhood and at school.
Parents also get some advantages in choosing nesting for child custody. If they can agree on getting a cheap apartment near the family home, they can alternately share it on the days when they don’t have parenting time. This can help both to save money after their divorce. They can also keep the family home and not have to worry about selling and splitting the proceeds. In many cases, this is better if the mortgage is already paid off; however, both parties can continue making payments toward the mortgage equally.
If the parents have decided to separate, nesting is a good way to share custody while testing the waters to see if divorce is an option. In some cases, it can result in a reconciliation.
Nesting is an appropriate child custody option if your divorce is amicable. If former spouses can agree on all the terms of their split and everything regarding their kids, nesting might be the best thing for everyone. If parents agree to the plan, they can sign a formal agreement and present it to the family court to make it official.