These relationships are special and need to be encouraged and strengthened. The best interest of the child standard requires the court to look to see which parent is most liable to not interfere with the child's already established relationships with extended family. Another factor to be explored is which parent will encourage and strengthen contacty with the other parent, and last if there is a history of visitation or access denial this too must be noted. The desire and intent of the parents to abide by orders of the court and agreements. Agreements and cout orders are a guage rarely used by attorneys or closely monitored by the courts, yet they are an important factor that warrrants notice.
Children learn from their parents.
They observe and model the behavior of their parents. The parent who violates orders of the court, but not held responsible for their actions teaches children that there is little to no consequences for breaking the law or following necessary rules. They fail to learn self restraint and respect. The court traditionally looks at the needs of the children in relation to child support. Children have needs that go way beyond child support.