The best interests of the child is the test used by most courts to make decisions for the well-being of children. For example, in disputes over child custody, the judge will make a decision based on the child's best interests which include: the child's age, sex, and mental and physical health; age, lifestyle, and mental and physical health of the parents; emotional ties between the parents and the child; ability of the parents to provide the child with food, shelter, clothing, and medical care; and the child's preference.