We are lawyers, not doctors so we will not speak directly towards signs, symptoms, spread, or treatment of the COVID-19 Coronavirus. Divorced adults who co-parent and single-parents will be forced to face additional challenges and that is who we can help.
Co-Parenting During Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Take this as an opportunity to create an open line of communication between you and your former spouse. This can be your chance to extend and olive branch and put your family’s best-interests first. It is important that both parents are informed and agree to take appropriate measures to protect their child and those around them.
How to Handle Schools and Daycares Being Closed
If you co-parent, now is the time to come together with your ex to plan for potential closures. Have an open and honest dialogue. If one of the parents has greater flexibility with work, offer to pick up extra time without holding it against the other parent. This time is for your child, not your own personal benefit. Closures have already begun so have the conversation with your boss now so that both of you can prepare and put a plan in place should you need to take time off or work-from-home. Proactive instead of reactive measures are the best way to get ahead of any potential challenges.
What Can You Do At Home
Stay calm and be a source of comfort for your child. Children are very perceptive to your moods and emotions so it is important that you maintain a resemblance of normal life and attitude for their sake. If your child is old enough to watch TV and understand what is happening, consider limiting sensationalized coronavirus news intake and instead sit down and have 1:1 conversations with them. Answer questions, address concerns, let them know that they are OK.
While no treatment is currently available, there are ways to limit the spread and protect yourself. At home, clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that people touch a lot. Door handles, faucets, TV remotes, keyboards, toys, refrigerator doors, etc. While your house doesn’t need to be completely sterilized, it is important to mitigate the risk from highly prone areas.
Children are known for putting their hands everywhere and on everything so teach them to not touch their eyes, nose, and mouth. Encourage them to wash their hands well and often, you can even make a game out of it or create a reward for positive behavior.
As recommended by experts, limit travel and attending large public events. We are not encouraging you to bunker down though, meeting up with friends and family is still important to every-day life. Be cognizant of interactions, protect yourself, your family, and those around you.
While the majority of infections are mild, flu-like, and the majority of people recover – we recognize you may still be concerned. If you’re in need of a divorce or family attorney, New Mexico Legal Group can handle your entire case remotely. Call us to learn how.