So here’s my situation, my ex wife and I are disagreeing on child care (not child support). She believes that I should pay for child care all the way until our children are 18 (Daughter 14, Son 9). Historically we’ve paid her mother to watch the kids (under the table) but now I believe that my ex wife is trying to capitalize on the situation.

My children have no physical or mental disabilities or exceptional needs that would hinder them from making responsible decisions/choices, and they live in a great neighborhood with little to no crime. Most of what I’ve read online argues that the fact that subsidized child care ends at 13. Side note: the court has already recognized that my daughter is old enough and capable enough to make her own decisions of where she when/where she wants to spend her time with either parent. So I do not agree with paying for a babysitter especially maternal grandmother all the way until the children are 18. Any literature, law, code, etc. that can be referenced would be greatly appreciated, thank you.

Location: California