Shared parenting is the ideal situation when parents in Texas separate but it isn’t always easy for the noncustodial parent to get their court-ordered time with their children. The good news is, noncustodial parents have rights. There are some things you can do to make sure you get the parenting time that was ordered by the family court.
Be consistent
If you want to show the court and your children that you are serious about your parenting time, be on time for pickups and drop-offs. If you don’t show up when you are expected, your children may be disappointed and their other parent has to explain why you didn’t show.
Be prepared
If your children go to your home for overnight stays, have beds, toys and food on hand for them. Make sure your kids are as comfortable at your home as they are when they are with their other parent. A little preparation goes a long way. Remember, they are coming to spend time with you, not the material things you provide for them.
Be generous
Child support typically covers a child’s basic needs. However, other expenses are likely to come up that require you to contribute more than the monthly court order. Paying a portion or even all of those expenses when you can might be in the best interest of your child. If you are unable to reach an agreement with your child’s other parent about these expenses, consider working with a family law attorney to modify the child support order to account for them.
A successful shared parenting arrangement could be worth the time and effort it takes to make it happen. Noncustodial parents have rights that can be enforced through the family court that issued the orders if your child’s other parent makes it difficult for you to spend time with your children. Being consistent, prepared and generous may help you build strong, healthy relationships.
