Custodial Parent

1. Failure to assume and demonstrate appropriate parental role.
2. Avoid abruptly upsetting a child’s routine.
3. Avoid feuding over visitation rights.
4. Assure children tat they will not be abandoned.
5. Maintain adequate distance from children.
6. Take opportunity of visitation periods.
7. Expect some emotional reaction in children.

 

Out of Home Parent

1. Do not overindulge
2. Establish good communications between parent and child:
   1. Utilize quiet times.
   2. Ask “interested” non-prying questions.
   3. Be a sympathetic listener (Listen to and acknowledge how your child is feeling, but don’t try to “fix” everything or apologize.
3. Create a homelike atmosphere.
4. Allow “free time”.
5. Wait before introducing romantic involvements.
6. Friends should be allowed to accompany children on visits occasionally.

 

Both

1. Inform children and answer questions.
2. Children should be told that they are not to blame.
3. Avoid bickering within hearing of children.
4. Avoid disparaging the absent mate.
5. Do not encourage side taking.
6. Avoid pumping the children.
7. Maintain parental communication.