Michigan's One Court of Justice
What is Parenting Time?
The Role of the Court
Making the Most of Parenting Time
Parenting Time Do's and Don'ts
Other Parent Doesn't Take Advantage
Communication
Being in Control
Role of Friend of the Court
Michigan Parenting Time Guideline
Frequently Asked Questions
Links
Parenting Time
When The Other Parent Doesn't Take Advantage of Parenting Time

Sometimes personal issues, such as substance abuse, mental health, or other problems, can limit a parent's ability to take advantage of parenting time. As the other parent, you cannot fix the situation.

However, you can do some things to help your child feel better about it.

  • Encourage the other parent to become involved in your child’s life.
  • Try to work with the other parent to remove any barriers to parenting time.
  • Don't say negative things about the other parent to your children.
  • You might say something such as, "There's nothing wrong with you. Any parent would be lucky to have you. And I am!"
  • Don't make promises about things over which you have no control, such as promising that the other parent will be present at a special occasion.
  • Don't blame yourself.
  • Try to find a friend or mentor for your child who is the same sex as the absent parent.