Did you know that according to the courts, improper nutrition may be a deciding factor in a courts decision regarding child custody rights? This is included in the “best interest of a child” factors in the MCL 722.23. Along with proper nutrition comes emotional attachment between the child and his parents, ability of the parties to guide and properly raise the child, and if the parents can provide day to day necessities and care.

These are followed by subsections that include: The length of time the child has lived in a stable, satisfactory environment, and the desirability of maintaining continuity. This includes how long the child has lived with each parent, and who has lived in the respective homes. Are there constantly significant others or friends moving in and out of the residence? Is it safe, clean and comfortable for the child?

Permanence of residence. This takes into account how often the parent is around, how often the child will be uprooted with moves, etc.

Also taken into account is the moral fitness of the involved parties. Does either party have a criminal record or a wild and active party life on the weekends?

According to Marie E. Matyjaszek the next category is the one that receives the most laughs but is often one of the most important. The mental, physical and emotional health of the parties involved. She says “of course everyone thinks their ex is crazy” but there are often times serious mental and emotional issues that are not seriously addressed.

This unfortunately is also where candy stuffed parents and kids will be taken into account. Of course, a little bit of candy, junk food and even fast food is fine. But if you are stuffing your child with pizza, McDonalds and Snickers on a daily basis, this may seriously impair your chances of winning the custody battle. Physical health of the child and parent or guardian bears just as much weight in the courts as does mental health and stability.

So, before you take little Tommy and Jane out for pizza, fast food and ice cream, or let them dig their hands deep into the cookie jar this weekend, you may want to rethink what you are doing to yourself and your children by letting them have whatever they want.