CHILD SUPPORT: 5 KEY THINGS EVERY PARENT SHOULD KNOWWritten by Detra D. Davis
There is no magic solution to getting issues surrounding child support resolved. Most parents know that when dealing with bureaucracy tied to child support system persistence, persistence, persistence is key that opens door. In fact, it is only thing that will open any door when it comes to getting a resolution to a problem. You cannot count on pencil pushers, or all too patient white collar “Friend of Court” workers to help. They are overworked, underpaid, wrapped in a sea of paperwork, antiquated computer programs, and red tape that barely allows them to move from point “A” to point “B”. So what’s a parent to do?1.If your relationship even remotely appears to be on rocks and children are involved start collecting information on your partner. This is advice for both men and women. Don’t fool yourself gentlemen; you too can become a custodial parent seeking child support from your partner. It may not be norm, but it is a reality. Don’t sneak around, and don’t feel as though you are going behind someone’s back. You have to do what is in best interest of your children and yourself. Begin collecting bank account numbers, list of licenses, locations of stock/bond papers, money markets and past work/address history. Gather as much as you can. 2.Keep impeccable records. Write names, addresses, phone and fax numbers to everyone you talk to concerning your child support case. You must hold people accountable and this is one way to do it. Don’t ever be afraid to ask a judge or referee, attorney or child support worker of your case who they report to at end of day. This will send a clear message that they will be held accountable for every word that comes out of their mouth so it better be in your best interest. 3.Parents who were married at time of conception may not have an issue filing for a child support order and often times your divorce attorney will cover this matter in your initial interview. However if parents are not married, establishing paternity is essential if you expect to receive child support. Paternity means fatherhood. Establishing paternity provides child/children with a legal father.
| | Emphasizing the Spiritual Side of Christmas with Our ChildrenWritten by Lisa M. Hendey
Emphasizing Spiritual Side of Christmas with Our Children By Lisa M. HendeyIn these hectic days prior to Christmas, it’s easy for us to push aside precious time we have with our young children in favor of hours spent shopping, wrapping, cooking for guests, and entertaining. We may find ourselves popping in a videotape, permitting one too many “happy meals” or handing our children toy catalogues to keep them occupied while we repeat “Maybe later, sweetie” more frequently than we realize. As parents, we all strive to build family traditions and memories our children will cherish. The trouble starts when we let ourselves become so wrapped up in creating those special moments that we forget what our children will really treasure – time with their parents. This holiday season, take a few quiet moments throughout day to emphasize “sacred” side of Christmas, “reason for season”. The following are a few suggestions for helping you to cherish this quiet family time leading up to Christmas: •Take time to read stories about real meaning of Christmas: Nearly every home contains a family Bible and Christmas is perfect time to explore scripture with your child. Simply open your Bible to beginning verses of each of four gospels and start reading. Let older children take turns and read a few verses each night in days leading up to Christmas, or read entire story on Christmas Eve prior to opening presents. •Christmas Carols: The malls are filled with songs about Santa, reindeer and chestnuts – fill you home with traditional, religious Christmas carols. Turn on a favorite Christmas CD (my personal favorite is O Night Divine by Cousins in Christ – http://www.roseofsharonmedia.com ), dim lights, and snuggle in front of a fire (or candle) with your kiddos – keep CDs in car for those hectic hours caught in traffic. And most importantly, sing along!!!
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