The Custodial Parent

Tips for the Custodial Parent

Supervised visitation can also be a challenge for you. Typically you have been taking care of your child's everyday needs and have a routine for yourself and your family. Supervised visitation can sometimes feel like one more responsibility. Of course you also have concerns and questions about the visits and how they will affect your child. This is understandable. In difficult times you may also want to talk to a mental health professional or find a support group where you can talk about your feelings.

Here are a few suggestions that might help you in the process:

Read the court order
Explain to your child where and when the visits will take place in accordance with their developmental understanding
Have your child ready on time and be prompt
Reassure your child that you support him or her in having a pleasant visit
Avoid quizzing your child about the visit
Avoid making your child a messenger to the other party
Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent or bring up past negative memories
Avoid speaking about Court issues with the child