Tips for the visiting parent
Being with your children 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 children. Your patience and commitment are important during this time.


Here are some suggestions that might be helpful to you:

• Read the court order.
• Give the center the opportunity to assist in the process of scheduling - it's part of the service. 
• Arrive and depart on time.
• Avoid questioning the professional visitation monitor in your children's presence about court orders, concerns, and details about the visits, etc. These can be addressed at an appropriate time. 
• Avoid quizzing your children about the other parent’s activities and relationships.
• Avoid making your children messengers to the other parent.
• Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent to the child and or to the visitation monitor. 
• Have your child ready before the visit ends for a smooth transition.
• Say brief and positive good-byes to your children when the visit is over.

Tips for the custodial parent
Supervised visitation can also be a challenge for you. Typically you have been taking care of your children’s everyday needs and have a routine for yourself and your family. Supervised visitation can sometimes feel like 1 more responsibility. Of course, you also have concerns and questions about the visits and how they will affect your children. 

Here are a few suggestions that might help you in the process:
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• Read the court order.
• Give the center the opportunity to assist in the process of scheduling - it's part of the service. 
• Say brief and positive good-byes to your children when dropping off the child. 
• Avoid speaking negatively about the other parent to the child and or to the visitation monitor.
• Avoid questioning the professional visitation monitor in your children's presence about court orders, concerns, and details about the visits, etc. These can be addressed at an appropriate time. 
• Explain to your children when the visits will take place.
• Have your children ready with anything they will need during the visits.
• Arrive on time to drop off and pick up your children.
• Reassure your children that you support them in having a pleasant visit.
• Avoid quizzing your children about the visit.
• Avoid making your children messengers to the other parent.

Tips for both parents
Often there are hurt and angry feelings toward the other parent. It may also seem impossible to have a positive attitude about supervised visitation. Remember that both of you care about your children and that children benefit from having 2 parents in their lives whenever possible.