In high-end custody disputes, emotions run high and everything feels like it’s under a microscope. But when it comes to proving you’re a great parent—not just to the court, but to your child—it’s often the small, consistent habits that matter most. At Robertson + Easterling, we’ve seen again and again that it’s not about being perfect. It’s about being present, intentional, and aligned with your child’s best interests. Here are eight specific ways to demonstrate great parenting in a way that both your child and the court can see.
1. Show Emotional Attunement
Kids thrive when they feel seen, heard, and understood. Get on their level—literally. Make eye contact, use calm tones, and validate their feelings. Judges notice when children feel emotionally safe and secure in your presence.
2. Stick to Routines
Children need structure to feel safe, especially in seasons of uncertainty. A consistent schedule—meals, bedtime, homework—shows stability and maturity. The parent who provides predictability is often seen as the one putting the child’s needs first.
3. Use Positive Discipline
Discipline is not about punishment; it’s about teaching. Explain expectations clearly. Respond calmly when rules are broken. A child who is guided—not scared—learns to trust you and themselves.
4. Engage in School and Activities
Show up. Attend parent-teacher conferences, practices, and performances. Check homework. Sign the permission slip. Courts look for parents who are plugged in and support the child’s education and interests.
5. Prioritize Communication and Presence
Put your phone down. Make space to talk about their day. Listen with intent. Kids remember when you’re truly present, and so do custody evaluators.
6. Nurture Identity and Confidence
Every child is becoming who they are. Support their strengths, encourage effort over outcomes, and let them express their preferences. Kids need space to grow without feeling controlled.
7. Maintain a Safe and Healthy Environment
This includes more than just a roof and a bed. Nutritious meals, clean clothes, safe surroundings, and regular health check-ups are all signs of attentive care. Screen time, social media, and friendships should be monitored appropriately.
8. Co-Parent Respectfully
Judges watch how you talk about and interact with your child’s other parent. Avoid using your child as a pawn or a messenger. If you’re solo parenting, show that you have a support system in place—and the wisdom to use it.
Parenting in the Middle of a Custody Battle
Great parenting doesn’t come down to one grand gesture—it’s a pattern of small, daily decisions that add up to stability, love, and guidance. In high-conflict custody cases, these habits are not only what help your child feel safe, but they also create a clear picture of your ability to provide long-term care and leadership. Judges and guardians ad litem often notice the same thing children do: consistency, presence, and a genuine commitment to putting their needs above the noise of the dispute.
If you are walking through a custody battle and wondering how to navigate the legal system while still showing up as the best parent you can be, you don’t have to do it alone. At Robertson + Easterling, we work with parents in some of the most complex custody cases in Mississippi, combining legal strategy with practical guidance to help you and your child find stability in the storm.
Let’s Talk
If you need advice on how to present yourself as a parent in court or want to build a parenting plan that truly reflects your child’s best interest, our team is ready to help. Call us today to schedule a confidential consultation.
