Five Exciting Conclusions from the Sixth International Conference on Shared Parenting
The International Conference on Shared Parenting is an annual event dedicated to keeping up with the changing dynamics of shared parenting goals worldwide. Co-parenting is challenging. The International Council on Shared Parenting, or ICSP, aims to help advance scientific knowledge surrounding the needs and rights of children whose parents live apart. It also seeks to gather evidence-based recommendations about the legal and judicial implementation of shared parenting and custody arrangements.
This year was the Sixth International Conference on Shared Parenting. At the Gene C. Colman Family Law Centre, we are thrilled to share the five exciting conclusions discussed at this year’s successful event.
Conclusion #1 – Reaffirming the Main Goal from the First International Conference
In Ontario, as in much of the developed world, the legal system evaluates child custody arrangements based on the “best interests of the child” standard. However, at this year’s conference, experts reaffirmed one of the main conclusions from the first conference. That conclusion remains that neither sole or primary custody orders nor the discretionary best interests of the child standard serve the needs of children whose parents are divorced. Research indicates the amount of shared parenting time needed for a child to grow and thrive is a minimum of one-third time with each parent. Depending on the situation, 50-50 parenting time may lead to additional positive benefits.
Conclusion #2 – Strengthening the Main Conclusion from the Third International Conference
During the third conference, evidence suggested that the burden of proof should fall on those who oppose shared parenting structures rather than those who promote them. Today, additional research from social scientists supports that stance more than ever and seeks to promote presumptive shared parenting to policymakers.
Conclusion #3 – Addressing Lack of Responsibility and Accountability
There is a consensus that there remains a lack of overall responsibility and accountability on the side of social institutions when considering the well-being of children impacted by separation and divorce. More robust accountability structures are needed within schools, private social welfare institutions, courts, administrative organizations, and legislative bodies. Only urgent and immediate intervention can help these institutions foster better communication and accountability with children and families.
Conclusion #4 – Addressing Family Violence
There doesn’t have to be a separation between addressing the issue of family violence and parental alienation in post-divorce and separation scenarios. Instead, social institutions must recognize that parental alienation may be a form of family violence, and violence must be addressed in all its unique forms. Polarizing the need to address family violence and parental alienation places children and family members at risk.
Conclusion #5 – More Social Support is Needed
One of the most vital conclusions from experts at the Sixth International Conference on Shared Parenting revolves around the need for more formal and informal social support. Social support is crucial to children, parents, and extended family members navigating the challenges of separation or divorce. These support structures can also strengthen shared parenting arrangements, leading to successful outcomes for children and families.
Shared parental arrangements tend to result in positive outcomes for children and families. The conclusions from the Sixth International Conference on Shared Parenting demonstrate how far research has come in indicating the extent to which shared parenting agreements benefit the physical, emotional, and psychological development of the world’s children post-divorce.
Contact a Knowledgeable Ontario Family Law Lawyer
Do you need help advocating for your child? Divorce is emotionally overwhelming for everyone, including children. Let the experienced Ontario family law lawyers at Gene C. Colman Family Law Centre help you navigate this challenging time and pursue the best possible outcome for you and your children. Contact our office today at 888-389-3099 for a confidential initial consultation.
