Physical and mental health of the parents Age and sex of child Wishes of the child if he or she is of the right age Religious considerations The relationship with & support from extended family of each parent Proof of alcohol, drug, or sexual abuse of each parent Emotional abuse or discipline from parents Stability of the home environment of each parent The child s adjustment to community and school The wishes of the child regarding his or her custody have a huge bearing in any custody decision. Once a child feels that what you are about to discuss is no laughing matter, then he or she would lend a listening ear and an open heart. 2. Never lie to your child. Kids hate being lied to. They would rather be hurt in knowing the truth that by being told with lies. When you are about to go on a child custody case, make sure that you explain thoroughly to your child what is happening and why are all these taking place. You can do it in a park or in a quiet spot in your home. Make sure that you will have plenty of time discussing about the situation so that your children can ask questions and get adequate answers. 2. Prepare your child for the court hearings. This step is important if the judge wishes to talk to your children in private or if your children are required to testify in court. For one to develop positive attitude, he or she must undergo self-reassessment to find out what are his or her strengths as well as the weaknesses. Once all of these have been identified, it will be easier to turn the bad ones into good ones and there would also be greater chances of making the positive ones better. Looking forward to a brighter day ahead of you and your child will give you the courage to go on fighting for your right as a parent and for your child s right to have a better life under your guardianship and care. Making sure your child will go under your care Most parents will do everything just to have their kids under their care after any separation. But more than the material or financial aspects, parents should be able to prepare themselves emotionally even before the child custody hearings take place. This will ensure that you are one hundred percent focused on your goal and that no distraction will hinder you in getting the custody of your child.