Importance of Extracurricular Activities in Custody Cases
Hi, I’m Tulsa Dads.Law attorney Clint Hastings. I practice law here in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and I focus on father’s rights. Today’s video is part of an ongoing series about parental fitness and the factors that judges consider when making custody decisions. I take a practical, common-sense approach when preparing my clients for these issues, and I want to share some of that with you.
Right now, I want to talk about extracurricular activities—and how they can play an important role in custody cases. At first glance, you might think extracurriculars aren’t that important. After all, the word “extra” implies they’re not necessary. They’re not part of the core school curriculum, so I often hear dads say, “Well, they’re optional, not essential.”
Benefits of Extracurricular Activities
But here’s the thing: while any one specific activity may not be necessary, courts tend to view participation in some kind of extracurricular activity as a healthy and important part of a child’s life. There’s a general understanding—and plenty of research to back it up—that these activities benefit children in multiple ways: they reduce stress, promote social development, and sometimes, like in sports, help with physical fitness.
So yes, your child doesn’t have to play soccer, but it’s generally seen as beneficial for them to be doing something. And when we apply that thinking to a custody case, we have to consider how it might look in court.
Get Involved in Your Child’s Extracurricular Activities
Even if you’re the one footing the bill, that alone doesn’t carry as much weight as being present and involved. Judges are going to care more about whether you’re at the games, whether you help practice, whether you encourage your child’s interests, not just whether you wrote the check.
So, my advice? Get involved. Keep a calendar. Document your participation—when you took your child to practice, when you attended games, even when you practiced together at the park. These details matter. They show the court that you’re engaged, supportive, and invested in your child’s development.
Take Action Now
Don’t underestimate how much these “extra” activities can influence a judge’s decision. And don’t wait until you’re on the stand to try to explain your involvement—show it now, while the case is pending. Stay tuned—I’ve got a few more videos coming your way on this topic of custody and parental fitness. I’m Tulsa family attorney Clint Hastings. Thanks for watching.
Call for a Low-Cost Consultation!
If you need legal assistance with custody matters, call us at 918-962-0900 for a low-cost consultation. We’re here to help you navigate the complexities of family law.
