Visitation after a divorce or separation helps a non-custodial parent maintain a healthy bond with his or her child. Both parents work together to come up with the best arrangement possible for their individual circumstances. Though visitations are supposed to have the best interest of the child in mind, there are times when an existing schedule begins to interfere with a child’s ability to learn. When divorce and visitation disrupts education, both parents must work together to make sure their child’s grades and overall learning experience do not suffer lasting harm.
Talk to the Non-Custodial Parent About Concerns
As soon as it becomes apparent that the current visitation schedule is having a negative impact on a child’s education, it is important to talk to the non-custodial parent about your concerns. In some cases, a simple phone call can clear up confusion or fix the situation, especially when the non-custodial parent was unaware of the problem. If a child is upset and having difficulty concentrating because a parent is constantly canceling visitations, be sure to discuss that, as well. Depending on the situation, an increase in visitation, a decrease in visitation, or simply changing the dates and times of the visitation are all possible solutions.
Explore Tutoring and Other Options
If one or both parents are unwilling or unable to change the current visitation schedule, consider taking advantage of tutoring, after school camps, and other methods available for students who are having trouble. It is not unusual for one parent to want to be perceived as the fun parent after a divorce, and children may take advantage of their parent’s desire to keep them happy. A child may stop doing homework or fail to study effectively when with a certain parent. Bringing in outside help is one way to make sure your child is consistently getting the help he or she needs without placing one parent in the position of being the bad guy.
Discuss Changes in Visitation
When all else fails, seriously consider changing the visitation schedule to make sure your child’s education no longer suffers. Talk to your child and the other parent to determine what would work best for everyone. Though everyone has the best interest of the child in mind, few parents want to permanently alter a court ordered agreement without spending time discussing the change. If one parent refuses to modify a child custody and visitation agreement, it may be necessary to return to court to have the case presented before a judge.
When to Contact an Attorney
Changes to an existing custody and visitation agreement are less time consuming than establishing one, but if one parent does not agree to the changes, the situation could become complicated. Talking to a qualified child custody and visitation attorney about your case is the best way to be sure that your decision is in the best interest of the child before going before a judge. The family law attorneys at Vayman & Teitelbaum understand how difficult it is to modify an agreement and are prepared to give you advice based on your unique circumstances. Contact us to schedule a consultation at one of our four offices conveniently located in the Atlanta metro area today.