In our last Father’s Day update, we reminded moms with primary custody that Father’s Day falls on the 2nd weekend in June, meaning fathers with standard possession orders in Texas will have four consecutive weekends of visitation. We highlighted the importance of designating your weekend period of possession to best suit your family’s needs. Although the time has passed to do so for this year we wanted to provide any divorced dads some additional insights around Father’s Day.
Review and Understand Your Custody Agreement
Father’s Day often includes specific visitation provisions. Ensure you know the terms of your custody agreement to avoid conflicts. Familiarize yourself with any special arrangements or scheduled exchanges for the holiday, so you can make the most of your time with your children.
Communicate
Proactively communicate with your ex-spouse to confirm plans and avoid last-minute misunderstandings. This helps create a smooth experience for you and your children. If modifications to the visitation schedule are needed, try to agree amicably and document any changes in writing. Consider the following:
- Regular Updates: Share important information about your child’s activities, school events, and health updates with your ex-spouse. This demonstrates your commitment to staying involved in your child’s life and ensures both parents are informed.
- Co-Parenting Apps: Utilize co-parenting apps or online platforms to facilitate communication. These tools can help you organize schedules, share documents, and communicate about important matters in a neutral and organized manner.
- Respectful Communication: Keep all communications respectful and focused on the needs of your child. Avoiding negative or confrontational language can help maintain a healthy co-parenting relationship and reduce conflict.
Know Your Rights and Resources
Stay informed about your rights as a father under Texas family law. If you feel your custody agreement isn’t being honored or needs adjustments, consider consulting a family law attorney. They can provide guidance and help ensure your rights and the best interests of your children are protected. These steps can help divorced dads ensure a meaningful and stress-free Father’s Day with their children.
