Reflection, Change, and New Beginnings |
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In the early morning hours of August 6, 1945, the United States Army Air Forces dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, Japan. It was the first time such a weapon had ever been used in warfare. While the bombing was successful in its goal of ending World War II, it also left a devastating legacy in Hiroshima and Nagasaki, where thousands were killed, and countless others were injured or suffered from radiation poisoning.
In the years since then, there has been much debate over whether the decision to drop the atomic bomb was the right one. Some argue that it was necessary to end the war as quickly as possible; others say that it was nothing more than a show of force and could have been avoided if diplomacy had been attempted. Whatever your opinion on this issue may be, it's hard to deny that the decision to use nuclear weapons has had a profound impact on both Japanese and American history.
The 1940s were a time of great change in the United States. While World War II was a disaster for the U.S., it brought new opportunities for Americans and allowed the country to start fresh after the war. Similarly, the month of August is a time for change and new beginnings as it marks the end of summer and the beginning of autumn. August is also a time to reflect on the past and prepare for the future.
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I Don't Want to Go!!
By Ann Arena
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When it comes to custody, one of the most difficult situations a parent may face is when their child suddenly does not want to go to their scheduled visit with the other parent. The anxiety and sadness you feel as a parent whose child is crying and begging not to you go. A parent’s natural instinct is to do whatever necessary to help the child feel better. An easy and obvious response would be to tell the child they simply don’t have to go. Unfortunately, the law does not base their decisions on emotion alone. Always remember that the ultimate question most family court judges will ask is: “What is in the best interests of the child?" Outside of a situation involving abuse or neglect, the court will almost always hold that it's in child's best interest to continue the relationship with both parents. If your child is refusing visitation with your co-parent due to a reason that directly concerns their safety, bring this to the attention of your attorney or other legal professionals immediately.
As a custodial parent, part of your job is to foster a relationship between your kids and your ex, no matter how difficult the situation may be. Despite the reasons for the break up, experts agree that children should maintain good relationships with both parents. As difficult as it may be, the parents should stay in contact and work together to achieve that goal. Supporting the visitation schedule is an important way to encourage them to build and maintain that bond. No matter the reason for not wanting to see their other parent, custodial parents are responsible for making sure that their child sees their other parent.
Family law courts want to see co-parents working together to encourage their child to spend time with each parent. If the opposite is happening—even if it's what the child wants—courts may not look as favorably upon the parent who appears to be preventing visitations.
Children, especially young children, often get their cues from the adults around them. If you talk positively about visitation, acting like it's a good opportunity and not as if it's a chore or a punishment, your child may be more likely to mirror that perspective and stop refusing to stick to their schedule.
It's important not to just dismiss your child when they don't want to go see their other parent. Have a conversation where you listen to their reasons and validate what they're feeling. Sometimes a child would just like to feel heard and that their wants matter to you, and by listening you could improve their outlook on your custody agreement and make them see going to visit as a good thing. Then, you don't have to "force" your child to do something they don't want to do. Steer away from explaining the technical, legal custody requirements to your child; all they need to know is that their other parent misses them, not that a judge says they have to go.
In Pennsylvania, the courts use the following 16 “best interest” factors when dealing with custody:
- Which party is more likely to encourage and permit frequent and continuing contact between the child and another party.
- The present and past abuse committed by a party or member of a party’s house-hold, whether there is a continued risk of harm to the child and which party can better provide adequate physical safeguards and supervision.
- The parental duties performed by each party on behalf of the child.
- The need for stability and continuity in the child’s education, family life and community life.
- The availability of extended family.
- The child’s sibling relationships.
- The well-reasoned preference of the child.
- The attempts of a parent to turn the child against the other parent.
- Which party is more likely to maintain a loving, stable, consistent and nurturing relationship with the child adequate for the child’s emotional needs.
- Which party is more likely to attend to the daily physical, emotional, developmental, educational and special needs of the child.
- The proximity of the residences of the parties.
- Each party’s availability to care for the child or ability to make appropriate child-care arrangements.
- The level of conflict between the parties and the willingness and ability of the parties to cooperate with one another.
- The history of drug or alcohol abuse of a party or member of a party’s household.
- The mental and physical condition of a party or member of a party’s household.
- Any other relevant factor.
If you are in a situation where your child is reluctant to visit the other parent, keep these factors in mind. In the eyes of the court, and for the best interest of your child, it is always better to encourage the relationship with the other parent. For any difficult custody situations, our experienced family law attorneys are here to help.
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Ten Fun Things to do Before School Starts |
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August is almost over, and that means the summer is winding down. But don't worry, there are still plenty of fun things to do before school starts back up. Here are some ideas to get you started.
1. Go to the beach. This is a classic summer activity that everyone should enjoy. Don't forget to pack the sunscreen!
2. Have a picnic. Grab some friends, some food, and head to your favorite park for a relaxing afternoon in the sun.
3. Go camping. If you're feeling adventurous, pack up your tent and sleeping bag and head into the great outdoors for a couple of nights. Just be sure to check the weather forecast first!
4. Visit an amusement park. If you're looking for some thrills, an amusement park is the perfect place to go. From roller coasters to water slides, there's something for everyone.
5. Go stargazing. One of the best things about summer is being able to stay up late and enjoy the clear night sky. See how many constellations you can find.
6. Have a water fight. This is a great way to beat the heat! Fill up some water balloons and have at it. Just be careful not to aim for anyone's face.
7. Make some homemade ice cream. This is a delicious summer treat that you can make yourself! There are plenty of recipes online, so find one that looks good to you and give it a try.
8. Go on a road trip. Explore new places and see what different parts of your state or country have to offer. Don't forget your camera!
9. Go fishing. This is a great way to relax and enjoy some time outdoors. You can even try your hand at catch-and-release if you don't want to keep the fish.
10. Have a backyard barbecue. Fire up the grill and invite some friends over for a fun summertime meal. Don't forget the burgers and hot dogs!
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It might be the end of summer, but that doesn't mean the jokes have to end! Here are some of our favorite end of summer jokes.
What did one beach say to the other beach?
Nothing, they just waved!
If all the World War II enemy leaders ran in a foot race, who would win?
Mussolini, because he was the fascist!
Where do sheep go on vacation?
The Baaa-hamas
Why don't oysters share their pearls?
Because they're shellfish!
What do you call a labrador at the beach in August?
A hot dog
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Parent’s Guide to Starting a Fresh New School Year! |
The start of a new school year is impending, and the beginning of something new can be nerve-racking but it is a chance for your children to create new memories, friends, relationships, and all in all a fresh start.
There will be new students, books and lessons, colleagues, and the hype and energy revolving around the first day has nothing to do with luck but with how you’ve handled being a parent from the end of last school’s year and the small amount of time you put in now helping your children in organizing their needs for the fresh reset.
1. Practice the daily school routine
Before stepping into the new year, your children shouldn’t get rushed into the heavy challenge of having to force themselves to wake up very early every day. Let’s not face feed them to the sharks. Instead, start practicing the daily school routine of going to bed early and be able to wake up on time, eat breakfast, brushing their teeth, take a bath, and put on clothes. These things can positively impact your children. When the first day comes, they are well prepared and used to the routines you’ve trained them to do.
2. Prepare the night before
Another thing to let your children need to get used to is preparing important things needed for the next day, the night before. From picking the proper clothing, packing up requirements the night before to their bags, and to give them ample time to be at ease before they sleep so they don’t have to worry about doing these things upon waking up. By doing this, they won’t feel stressed before going to school, and the only thing they will be focusing on is their daily routine.
3. Prepare the necessary supplies
Going back to school is easier for everyone if a child has something to look forward to. Purchasing school supplies or clothes with your child is a good way to help them become more enthusiastic about starting a new school year. Check with your school to find out what your child will need this year. Try to help your child get excited about school by letting them see their friends they haven't seen all summer. You can also try talking to your child about the fun activities he or she will get to do and the new friends they will make.
4. Teach your child how to deal with bullying
Bullying at school is a serious problem and can result in injury or even death. If you suspect that your child is being bullied, reassure your child that you and the teacher will support him or her, talk to the teacher or person in charge, follow up on any action taken and remain involved in the decision-making process. Keep in mind children may be reluctant to talk due to fear of embarrassment or further harm.
5. Assisting with interpersonal relationships
The new school year brings a new classroom setting, with a different teacher and new classmates. Introducing your children to one or more of his or her classmates ahead of time will ensure making friends is a little easier and less scary. Visit the school and the teacher with your children and ask the teacher to explain the school day to your child and be shown around the classroom. This will surely boost up their confidence and lessen their anxiety because they have something to look forward to on the first day of school!
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We are seeking guest writers... |
We are seeking guest writers to contribute to our email newsletter which reaches more than 2000 people per month. If you would like to consider a joint article we would be glad to work on something with you. For more information, please contact Ashley Malcolm via email amalcolm@pjrlaw.com or call 717-610-1639.
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