How Often Should A Parent See Their Child?

How often should a parent see their child?

There is no one definitive answer to this question.

Every family is different and every situation is unique. That said, there are some general guidelines that can help parents make the best decision for their children:

In a perfect world, every child would have the opportunity to spend time with both parents equally. However, this is not always possible. 

In cases of divorce or separation, it is often up to the custodial parent to decide how much time the non-custodial parent will get to see their child.

Even in families where both parents are involved, there may be times when one parent must travel for work or take on additional responsibilities that limit their availability.

The most important thing is that children feel loved and supported by both parents.

They should also have the chance to develop a strong relationship with each parent individually. This can be difficult to achieve if parents only see each other sporadically or if there is conflict between them.

What Is Reasonable Access?

The term ‘reasonable access’ is not defined in law, but is generally taken to mean the time a non-resident parent spends with their children.

It is important to remember that reasonable access does not give a non-resident parent any legal right to see their children – it is merely an arrangement that can be agreed between the parents, or ordered by the court.

There are no hard and fast rules about what constitutes reasonable access, and it will vary depending on the individual circumstances of each case.

However, as a general guide, reasonable access might include:

• Regular contact with the children
• Special occasions and holidays, such as birthdays, Christmas and Easter
• School holidays
• Parent-teacher meetings

Of course, it is not always possible for non-resident parents to have such a high level of access to their children.

In these cases, it is important to try and come to an agreement that is in the best interests of the child and allows the non-resident parent to maintain a meaningful relationship with them.

Reasonable access does not have to be equal – it simply needs to be fair.

Related: The 5 Digital Parenting Rules That REALLY Matter

Is Every Other Weekend Reasonable Access

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the child’s age, the distance between the parents’ homes, and the work commitments of both parents.

For younger children, it is generally considered that spending alternate weekends with each parent is reasonable access.

This allows them to maintain close relationships with both parents and helps to minimise disruption to their lives.

As children get older, they may want (or need) to spend more time with each parent. In these cases, it is important to try and come to an agreement that works for everyone involved.

It is also worth bearing in mind that the concept of reasonable access is flexible – what is considered reasonable in one case may not be considered reasonable in another.

Ultimately, the best interests of the child should be the paramount concern when deciding on a parenting time arrangement.

If both parents are able to put aside their own needs and wants, it is usually possible to come to an agreement that is fair and workable for everyone involved.

The Law On Overnight Visitation UK

There is no specific law on overnight visitation in the UK, but there are a number of factors that will be taken into account when deciding whether it is in the best interests of the child.

These include:

• The age of the child.
• The distance between the parents’ homes.
• The work commitments of both parents.
• The relationship between the child and each parent.
• Any history of violence or substance abuse.
• The wishes of the child (if they are old enough to express a preference).

At the end of the day, the decision will be made based on what is best for the child.

If both parents are able to put aside their own needs and wants, it is usually possible to come to an agreement that is fair and workable for everyone involved.

If you cannot agree on a parenting time arrangement, you may need to get help from a mediator or solicitor.

You can also apply to the court for a child arrangements order.

Reasons To Deny Overnight Visitation

There are several reasons as to why a parent might want to deny their child overnight visitation with the other parent.

In some cases, it may be because there is a genuine concern for the child’s safety.

For example, if the other parent has a history of violence or substance abuse, it may not be in the best interests of the child to stay with them overnight.

In other cases, a parent may deny overnight visitation simply because they do not want to share their time with the child - this can be particularly difficult for fathers who have been denied access to their children following divorce or separation.

If you are considering denying your child overnight visitation with the other parent, it is important to speak to a solicitor first.

They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you to reach an agreement that is in the best interests of your child.

FAQ's:

How often should the dad see the children?

There is no definitive answer to this question, as it will depend on a number of factors, including the child’s age, the distance between the parents’ homes, and the work commitments of both parents. The best interests of the child should always be the paramount concern when deciding on a parenting time arrangement.

What is reasonable access for a non-resident parent?

Reasonable access is an agreement that is in the best interests of the child and allows the non-resident parent to maintain a meaningful relationship with them. Reasonable access does not have to be equal – only fair.

Can I deny my ex overnight visitation if he has a history of violence?

Yes, you can. If there is a genuine concern for the child’s safety, it may not be in their best interests to stay with the other parent overnight.

Can I stop my ex from seeing our child overnight if I don’t want to share my time with them?

No, you cannot. The needs of the child should always come first. If you are considering denying your child overnight visitation with the other parent, it is important to speak to a solicitor first. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action and help you to reach an agreement that is in the best interests of your child.

I’m having trouble reaching an agreement with my ex-partner on overnight visitation. What can I do?

If you are unable to reach an agreement with the other parent, you may need to get help from a mediator or solicitor. You can also apply to the court for a child arrangements order.

What if my ex-partner lives far away?

If the other parent lives a significant distance away, it may not be possible for them to have overnight visits with the child on a regular basis. However, there are many other ways in which they can maintain a relationship with the child, such as through Skype, Facetime, or regular phone calls.

My child is very attached to me and doesn’t want to stay with their other parent overnight. What should I do?

The wishes of the child should always be taken into account when deciding on a parenting time arrangement. However, it is important to remember that children are adaptable and that overnight visits can be beneficial for them. If your child is resistant to the idea of spending time with their other parent, try to encourage them to give it a chance. Explain that it will be a good opportunity for them to spend some quality time together.

What rights do grandparents have?

Grandparents do not have an automatic right to see their grandchildren. However, if they have a close relationship with the child, they may be able to apply for a child arrangements order.

My partner and I are separated but we are still on good terms. Can we still have joint custody?

Yes, you can. Joint custody is possible even if you are no longer together. You will need to come to an agreement on how you will share parental responsibility for the child and how you will make decisions about their welfare.

What is the difference between joint custody and shared parenting?

Joint custody (also known as shared parenting) is when both parents have an equal say in decision-making regarding the child. Shared parenting is when the child lives with both parents on a rotating basis.

Wrapping Up:

Parenting time arrangements can be difficult to negotiate, but it is important to remember that the child’s best interests should always be the top priority.

There are a number of different factors that need to be taken into account when deciding on an arrangement, including the distance between the parents’ homes and their work commitments.

If you are unable to reach an agreement with the other parent, you may need to get help from a mediator or solicitor.

Although there is no definitive answer to the question of how often a parent should see their child, research indicates that frequent and positive contact between parents and children has many benefits for both parties.

It is important for parents to find what works best for them and their families, keeping in mind the importance of maintaining open communication with their children.

Have you been through this and, if yes, what was your experience? Let us know in the comments!