Family Care Services

Preparing for Visitation

The Intake...

To begin using the services of the Family Access Program, both parents must contact our office and schedule an individual intake with the Director before services can begin. Both parents are asked to bring the following information for the intake interview:

• Drivers License or Valid Identification Card
• Copy of the Court Order or Temporary Custody Orders
• Copy of the Protective Order (if applicable)
• A recent picture of the Child
• A recent picture of the Parents (custodial and non-custodial)

Family Care Services reserves the right to end the visit if the supervised parent violates any court order or Family Care Services policies during the visit. Family Care Services staff will end the visit immediately if the staff member feels it is in the best interest of the child.

Tips for the Non-Custodial Parent

Being with your child in the presence of someone else may be uncomfortable for you, at least in the beginning. You probably have many questions and concerns, and that is perfectly understandable. During tough times you may want to talk to a mental health professional or find a support group to help you with your feelings. Do your best to focus on your relationship with your child. Your patience and commitment will pay off. Here are some suggestions that might be helpful to you:

• Arrive and depart on time
• Do not discuss the court case with the child
• Only talk positive when talking to the child
• Do not make the child a messenger to the other party
• Do not talk about or ask about the custodial parent
• Read the Court Order / Custody Order thoroughly

Tips for the Custodial Parent

Supervised visitation can also be a challenge for you. Typically you have been taking care of your child's everyday needs and have a routine for yourself and your family. Supervised visitation can sometimes feel like one more responsibility. Of course you also have concerns and questions about the visits and how they will affect your child. This is understandable. In difficult times you may also want to talk to a mental health professional or find a support group where you can talk about your feelings. Here are a few suggestions that might help you in the process:

• Read the Court Order / Custody Order thoroughly
• Explain to your child where and when the visits will take place
• Have your child ready on time and be prompt
• Reassure your child that you support him or her in having a pleasant visit
• Do not prolong your departure
• Do not quiz your child about the visit
• Do not make your child a messenger to the other party
• If the child is in distress for more than fifteen minutes the custodial parent will be asked to return. Plans to further orient the child to the program will be made

Preparing your Child

It is very important to prepare your child(ren) for the monitored visit - it will make your child feel more comfortable and enjoy the time with their other parent. The following is a list of suggestions for helping your child(ren) prepare for the visit:

• Use words your child will understand
• Do not tell the child too far in advance of the visit.
• Tell your child you will return when the visit is over.
• Describe the environment.
• Tell the child(ren)that he/she will be with mommy or daddy during the entire visit.
• Tell child that he/she will not be forced to say or do anything they don't want to during the visit.
• Regardless of your concerns, fears, and anger, present the visit as a good experience. Try to make it family friendly and pleasant for your child!

Before services begin your child will attend an orientation in order to familiarize them with staff and the environment. They will learn that the role of the monitor is to ensure their safety and comfort.