Parents in Clarksville, Tennessee -- especially those with infants -- should be careful if a divorce is on the horizon. If spouses cannot get along amicably, it may be time for the divorce, but prior to the decision, be sure to consider the ways that it might affect any children. Babies tend to reflect their surroundings, especially when it comes to the emotions of the parents.

Let's say that divorce is imminent and that there is no way that spouses could get along while living under the same house. It is important to remember that both have parental rights and now is the time for them to come into play. In order to best care for the child, the spouses should do their best to sit down and create a schedule or a routine so that both can share in the child's development.

The brains of young children are still developing, and it may mean that long-term memory is not fully established. This means that being regularly present in the child's life is important for bonding to occur. It could even mean that daily visits are necessary.

Experts are not sure if it is better for a baby to stay at one parent's house so that it can sleep in the same environment, or if it is okay for parents to take turns having the child stay at their respective homes. Some mothers may try to use the excuse of breastfeeding to keep the child with them. This is an easy work-around for fathers that want to take their child home with them for the night. Request that the mother pump a few bottles so that the child's nutritional regiment won't be ruined.

In situations like this, consulting with family law attorneys for a divorce could be the best route to go, as attorneys could dispassionately work toward a settlement while avoiding the animosity that could exist between spouses.

Source: The Kansas City Star, "Ask Mr. Dad: Don't divorce your baby," Armin Brott, Jan 17, 2012