Nesting Arrangement
A custody arrangement where the children stay in the family home while the parents take turns living there according to the custody schedule.
Understanding Nesting Arrangement
Nesting (also called bird-nesting) minimizes disruption for children by keeping them in a stable, familiar environment while parents rotate in and out. The off-duty parent stays in a separate apartment, with a friend, or in a shared second residence. While ideal for children's stability, nesting is expensive (maintaining multiple residences), can delay emotional closure, and often creates conflicts about household responsibilities. It typically works best as a short-term arrangement during the transition period.
Real-World Examples
For six months after filing, they used a nesting arrangement where the kids stayed in the house and the parents alternated weeks, each staying at a small studio apartment when off-duty.
Related Terms
An arrangement where both parents share decision-making authority (legal custody) and/or physical time (physical custody) with their children.
Parenting PlanA detailed written agreement specifying how parents will share custody, visitation, decision-making, and responsibilities for their children after divorce.
Marital HomeThe primary residence where the married couple lived together, often the most valuable and emotionally significant asset in a divorce.
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This definition is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Divorce laws and terminology may vary by state and jurisdiction.
Always consult a licensed attorney in your area for advice specific to your situation.