What does custody allow a guardian to determine?

The concept of custody within the context of guardianship is fundamentally about the authority and responsibility that a guardian has towards a child. When a guardian has custody, they have the legal right to make significant decisions on behalf of the child, which includes determining the child's educational and medical care. This authority is critical because such decisions shape the child's well-being, development, and future opportunities.

In educational matters, guardians can choose schools and educational programs that align with the child's needs and best interests, ensuring that the child receives appropriate instruction and support. In terms of medical care, guardians are responsible for consenting to medical treatments, managing healthcare needs, and making choices about a child's health and well-being. This responsibility underscores the importance of the guardian's role in fostering a safe and supportive environment for the child's growth.

The other options, while related to a child's life, do not encapsulate the primary aspects of custodian authority as effectively. Decision-making related to residence, for instance, is a part of custody but is intertwined with broader considerations of educational and medical care. Similarly, the notions of a child's ability to run away and disciplinary actions at school are not direct responsibilities granted to a guardian through the custody framework. Instead, they may relate to behavioral management or parental oversight rather