From personal experience I would recommend doing to benefit both parents. Always trying to keep in mind the children and what they like to do. This allows everyone to be in a more amicable situation which will avoid any over-whelming animosity.

As for changing the hours for Parenting Time this should always first consider the children and their school and social calenders first. Making adjustments for things such as parties, school functions, etc. Also, this should allow for the other parents schedule when it benefits BOTH parties in order to prevent conflict later on.

Scheduling any kind of event such as Birthday parties should be also considered. To include the other parent allows for less animosity. Especially when considering that parent attending during other than Parenting Time as scheduled. If considering that the other Parent may feel awkward the choosing of the location should also be considered.

Scheduling any major changes such as for Non-Custodial, Supervised visits this can be especially difficult. When the Supervising Parent no longer wants to attend try choosing an impartial person, that can make the Non-Custodial Parent more at ease. This benefits the children as well, due to the less stressed look on the visiting parent.

For Holiday changes this can be both difficult and beneficial depending on the Negotiations. Some Parents do not like to share the important holidays such as Christmas. These are more a time for "close family" members to gather from out of town and may increase the added stress of fitting into the schedule. Though that is true it is still necessary to make these visits amicable for both families.

Always keep in mind that the children are the most important factor. They will learn from how you interact with your ex-spouse with their significant others later in life. This can be a beneficial time for them to learn from your mistakes and make them feel more at ease. Always try to keep in mind the benefits of allowing a equal attention of "Natural Love" by both Parents in the children's lives.

Learn more about this author, J. Lee Kenser.
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