People commonly assume that the father will become the noncustodial parent and hold the responsibility for paying child support after a divorce. However, either parent could end up in this position. Whether you are the mother or the father, it is important that you find ways to maintain strong relationships with your children after the divorce.
You may worry that, as the noncustodial parent, your children will no longer value your relationship or that you will not have the opportunity to see them grow. Fortunately, that may not be the case. If your custody order does not prohibit direct contact with your children, you should have the ability to do your best to make the custody arrangement work.
What should you keep in mind?
Many matters change after a divorce. As the noncustodial parent, you may have to pay child support and figure out ways to make your children feel welcome at your home. Some tips for helping your situation include the following:
- Maintain records of your visitation schedule, parenting plan, support payments and other matters relating to the custody arrangement.
- Maintain respect for the other parent. Though the two of you may no longer get along well enough to remain married, you can still show each other respect as the parents of your children.
- If you have concerns about your custody arrangement, seek advice from reliable resources and support from those who have faced similar experiences.
- Make a place in your home for your kids. Though they may not live with you all the time, you want your home to feel like their home and having space for you kids may also come into play during custody hearings.
- Go to sporting events, social gatherings and school functions that your children participate in. By going, your children can see that you still want to play an active role in their lives.
Understandably, it can be difficult for any parent to see his or her children less often, especially due to divorce. If you have questions about your custody arrangement or feel that a modification may be warranted, you will want to discuss the matter with a Texas family law attorney. Gaining advice from a legal advocate can better ensure that you understand your legal options and what steps you may need to take in an effort to achieve your custody-related goals.