Research shows that children of divorce benefit from a relationship with both parents, both emotionally and finanacially. Unfortunately, following divorce, some parents may not be actively involved in their children’s lives and, consequently, may get behind on child support payments.
Not only are chidren not receiving the benefit of both parents’ involvement in their lives, but children are also financially disadvantaged in these situations. In fact, when a parent fails to make child support payments, some families have to turn to social services to make ends meet.
The parent who is not financially supporting the children, sometimes because of an employment issue, typically becomes further alientated from the family. They can accumulate significant debt from child support arrears making it difficult to set things right.
The R.E.A.L Parenting Program, specifically targeting the problem of absentee dads, may help turn things around for many families. The program, launched in the state of New York and surrounding areas, help dads to get involved both financially and emotionally in their children’s lives.
R.E.A.L stands for responsible, employed, active and loving. The program offers a reduction in social services payments for fathers who complete classes on parenting, leadership and job skills. There are also incentives offered when a father secures regular employment.
Establishing regular contact with their children and alleviating some of the financial pressure seems to be working to help dads restore relationships with the family. And, of course, a dad’s more active role allows children to benefit from both parents’ emotional investment and financial support over their lifetimes.
If you are considering divorce, you may have questions regarding child support, parenting time and parenting responsibility when children are involved. Discussing your concerns with an experienced family law attorney can help you establish a plan that will benefit your children. Contact our Libertyville, Illinois family law team at Ronald L. Bell & Associates PC for answers to your questions regarding Illinois divorce, child custody & support or other family law matters today at 847-495-6000.