Benefits of Every-Other-Week Living for Children

1. More Time With Both Parents

When parents no longer live together, one parent often "steps up" and starts doing things the other parent used to handle. That's why children who live every other week often have better contact with their dads than children whose parents live together — dads simply spend more time with their kids and look after them more than before. (And yes, of course, sometimes it's moms who need to step up!)

2. More Adults Around

It can be hard for a parent to do everything alone at home, so many ask for help from grandparents, a best friend, or a neighbor. For you as a child, that often means more adults around — adults with more energy, who are interested in how you're doing.

3. Special Deals With Your Parent

When you live with one parent at a time, it's often easier to find cozy moments together. Maybe it's always fish tacos on Fridays, because one parent can decide on their own without two adults having to agree on everything? Maybe things get a little more playful and relaxed at home?

4. Double Birthdays & Extra Christmas Presents

This varies from family to family. Some children celebrate their birthday with both parents at the same time, while others get two parties — one with mom and one with dad. Some parents agree on other arrangements, but children who live every other week are often celebrated a little extra, because both parents want to make a fuss of their sweetheart. We think that's a great bonus! The same usually goes for Christmas and presents: celebrating "Little Christmas" with the parent you're not with on Christmas Eve is the best thing ever!

5. Peace and Quiet at Home

This isn't true for every child, but it is for many. If things were stormy between your parents, the arguing often stops once they no longer live together. That's a good thing — children don't do well when there's a lot of conflict. It's also easier for parents to be kind and steady when everything is calm. Usually both kids and parents feel better for it.

We hope this list helps! ❤️