If the only type of visitation you have with your kids is supervised, you’ve got to be able to make the most of it. Supervised visitation is not ideal, but when it’s all you’ve got— it’s better than none at all. So we’re going to help you figure out how to handle it. From what to bring, what activities to choose, and how to have the most fun within the circumstances.
Supervised Visitation: Making the Most of Your Time
First things first, make sure you’re showing up on time
No matter who your supervisor is— whether it be mom, dad, grandma, or an assigned mediator, it is important not to keep them waiting. Chances are, if there are supervised visitations being scheduled— they are also being observed in some capacity. Supervised visitation is never the end goal when it comes to custody. It’s quite likely that you’re working to obtain more visitation rights. Therefore, punctuality is likely to be a consideration.
Plan your time
Whether the planning be as simple as bringing a book or a puzzle, or as in-depth as planning to bake or cook together. You want to have some sort of plan in place for how to use your time. I’m sure you could sit there all day and stare into their sweet eyes. But, spend your time engaging with them instead. Find out how their week has been, what’s new in their life— show interest in their activities.
Tell them about you too. They are interested in your life as well, tell them about it. You want to make these visits as easy as possible. It’s tough to feel dissected in front of a stranger or old spouse, but you have to work with what you’ve got.
Do something educational or creative together
Whether that be reading a book, painting a picture, or putting together a giant puzzle— engage their brain. Plus, if you choose the creative route, that leaves you plenty of time to talk as well and get to know each other in this setting.
Have a plan, but go with the flow as well
If you planned to do one activity, and the child doesn’t want to— have a back up plan. Depending on what your supervised setting is, there could be plenty of activities available to you. As we’ve said, cooking or baking together is a great bonding activity.
You can use the time to bake and decorate a sweet treat together, or teach your child to cook healthy meals. The point is to be flexible, understanding, and patient as you figure all of this out. Supervised visitation is tough to navigate, especially at first.
If you’re having trouble, reach out to a support group, or the internet.
There are plenty of resources to help you acclimate to these changes. We wish you luck and offer our hand, when the time comes to pursue further custody agreements.