Blog

Nobody’s Perfect

Sarah Savasky
October 30, 2014

If you are a parent you are probably willing to admit that you are not always perfect. This is a good thing to keep in mind when you are contemplating who would take care of your minor children if something were to happen to and your spouse. No parent wants to imagine this scenario, but taking some time to consider who would make the best guardian for your minor child(ren) will likely give you some peace of mind; and although you won’t find a perfect replacement for you, you can likely find the best fit for your child.

When choosing a guardian here are some things to consider:

1. Is this person or couple’s parenting style similar to yours?
2. Do they share the same values and religious beliefs?
3. Would your children have to move to another town and start a new school?
4. Do they have children of their own?
5. How comfortable are your children with them and their children?
6. How would your children fit into their lifestyle?

You may find it helpful to make a list of what is most important to you and choose according to your top three or four priorities. You may decide, for instance, that having someone who shares your parenting philosophy is more important than where they live. Once you have decided on the person or couple who is the best match, it is important to talk to them to make sure they are comfortable being named as guardian(s).

It can also be helpful to remember that the chances that the guardian you have chosen will have to act in that role are very small. It is a big decision, but keeping this perspective can make it less daunting.