We are all facing upheaval in our lives and daily routines due to #COVID-19, with the little ones perhaps feeling it most. Schools, malls, parks, and all of their outdoor activities are shut down. They cannot see their teachers, friends, and cannot even go to the library. We are told to #StayHome and practice #SocialDistancing.
Does this mean that the children’s time with their other parent should be suspended too…you know…in order to keep them ‘safe’ and ‘at home’?
The answer is simple: ABSOLUTELY NOT.
While it is important to protect the physical well-being of your children, it is also important to protect their emotional health too. In addition to being deprived of their daily routines, children should not also be deprived of seeing their parents. Continuing to spend time with their parents is one of few stable routines that children can still enjoy during this crisis.
The few cases heard by Judges during the COVID-19 Court shutdown state that the rules of social distancing should be applied with flexibility, creativity, and common sense. Children should still see their parents, and parents should practice social distancing, hand washing, and other safety measures during this uncertain time.
However, this does not mean that you should knowingly put your children in harm’s way if the other parent is clearly not complying with the requirements of proper hygiene, distancing. Doing so is putting your children at risk.
If you are concerned that your ex is not following proper precautions, then first and foremost, speak to him/her about it before running off to Court.
Judges want to see that parents are doing everything they can to ensure their children are safe in the other parent’s care and that they are attempting to resolve issues in their children’s best interest before the last resort of Court. It may be the case that cooperation and communication between parents can remedy the concerns they have, and ward off the need to go to Court. If this does not work, then you may have no choice but to seek the assistance of a Judge to ensure your children are kept safe.
In conclusion, it is very important that children have the encouragement, love, and support of their parents, now more than ever. This means that the children should continue to have time with their parents, while following all safety precautions when doing so.
If your ex is denying your children time with you during this pandemic or if he/she is exposing your children to the virus, then give us a call at 905-237-7332, to schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers.
This is a novel and difficult time for everyone, and we are here to help.