If you are in the beginning stages of divorce with children, it is no surprise if this is overwhelming. Even if you are on the best of terms with your soon-to-be ex-spouse, figuring out living situations and guiding your children through the process is a big challenge.
Particularly if you are in the beginning phases of divorce, you likely do not want to disrupt your kids’ living situation overmuch. “Bird nesting” is a great solution for some families during this time. According to NBC News, “bird nesting” involves the parents staying put in the family home, while the parents take “shifts” being in the home with the children.
Taking shifts: Giving parents space
The idea behind nesting is that it keeps the children in the same place, which affords them little disruption. They will be able to attend the same school and sleep in the same bed. The only difference to the children is that only one parent is in residence.
This gives the parents necessary time apart, so that conflict does not occur in the house. It can give parents the space and time necessary to plan, so that when the divorce proceeds and the parents shift into the next “permanent” arrangement, there is less stress on the children.
Next steps with bird nesting
Bird nesting should not be a permanent arrangement. It can give children false hope that their parents will get back together, and also hinder parents from moving on with their lives. Usually, bird nesting should last no longer than six months.
Bird nesting is an excellent temporary solution for the initial stages of divorce. It gives the children stability while allowing you time to plan what comes next.