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Step 1
Follow any custody order you and the custodial parent have arranged. If you haven't gotten one of these, it may be wise to find a lawyer to help you come up with a plan that works for both you and the children's other parent. The custody order will give exact days and times that the child should be with each parent so there is no confusion. School holidays, including summer and long weekends, Christmas, Thanksgiving, and the child's birthday will all be listed within a custody order.
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Step 2
Be flexible arranging any time with the custodial parent. Some days the other parent may ask to keep the child during your normal visitation hours. If this is an occasional problem, you should consider overlooking it in case you need to reschedule at some point. Try and work with the other parent and always keep in mind what's best for your child.
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Step 3
Document every violation the other parent does. This can include keeping a calendar or notes about the times you lost with your child and your attempts to reschedule. This will help a lawyer see a pattern of behavior in the other parent and may help you change visitation in court. Usually, if the custodial parent consistently violates a custody order, visitation may be modified.
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Step 4
Ask for assistance in enforcing a custody order from the police if this is allowed in your state. However, keep in mind that having police officers show up at the door step of where your children are may have a negative impact. Sometimes simply telling the custodial parent that you're going to get the police involved will work.
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Step 5
Show up on time to pick up and drop off your children from your visitation hours. Try and have a normal routine so your child adjusts well. Have your kids clean and fed when dropping them off to the custodial parent. Knowing that the children are well cared for and safe can make it easier for you to obtain more visitation time with your children.
