We all know the idea of establishing a custody visitation schedule with a co-parent can feel like a worrisome process, but you can better prepare yourself by reviewing some common areas of concern. Ultimately, these arrangements are made to ensure the best interests of your child, and both parents should work together on establishing a consistent message and routine to the best of their abilities. 

Communication With Your Co-Parent

Although it can be challenging, it best for your child to keep communication open with your ex. Written correspondence is recommended, as is proper documentation of your exchanges. This is especially important if a disagreement arises later. 

  • Keep each other in the loop. Text message updates work well for many parents. In other cases, email or even a co-parenting app may work better. Either way, be sure your outreach is consistent and recorded. 
  • A lack of communication on your end can be seen as being unwilling to compromise – this can ultimately be a detriment to your case. 
  • Communicate directly with your co-parent, do not use your children as a messenger.

Communication About Your Co-Parent

Rather than outwardly expressing you’re the better parent, it’s best to let your actions and the evidence speak for itself and to highlight personal successes with your child.  

  • Remember to speak well about your co-parent in front of your child, it’s vital to advocate for a healthy relationship with both parents. 
  • In instances where you have issues with your co-parent, rely on friends or a therapist to sort through this – these are not proper conversations if there is any chance the child could overhear. 

The Weight of Children’s Preferences

Older children typically want more of a say in the schedule and can often broach the topic by talking with parents directly. Teenagers often have a life of their own outside their parents and don’t want to be restricted by a schedule set by their parents or the court.

Visitation Schedules

Visitation schedules, commonly referred to as possession schedules in Texas, are is important to put in place as part of your families parenting plan post-separation.  Ideally, your family will be able to work together and operate on a relatively flexible schedule.  Whether or not you and the other parent are currently communicating effectively, it is important that a possession schedule is already in place, in case there is ever a breakdown in communication or a disagreement.  

Contacting an Attorney: We’re Here to Help

If you have questions related to custody matters, it is important to contact an attorney for a thorough review of your case and guidance on how to best move forward. The team at Maples | Jones is here to help – please inquire via our website at www.maplesjones.com or by calling our office at 512-617-3952.