In most cases, parents in Ohio want to spend as much time with their newborn sons or daughters as possible. However, it is important to create a parenting plan that places the needs of the child over your desires as a parent. Generally speaking, it is best for infants to spend the majority of the time with their primary caregiver.
What the ideal visitation schedule looks like
You should be able to create a sufficient bond with your baby by spending about 30 minutes together three or four times a week. Visitation should take place when the baby doesn’t need to be fed or put down for a nap. If the baby’s mother is still nursing, it may not be practical to have the child for several hours during the day or at your home for overnight visits.
Feel free to create a plan that works best for your family
If the child’s mother is not nursing, it may be possible to have the child on overnight visits or for longer visits during the day. Furthermore, there is nothing wrong with watching the child while the custodial parent is at work or is otherwise unable to provide adequate supervision.
Keep the lines of communication open
If you believe that your child’s mother is withholding visitation rights, it is important to figure out why she may be doing so. In some cases, it may be because she is worried about being away from the baby for more than a few hours. It may also be because she is worried about her child’s safety. By addressing those concerns, it may be easier to obtain greater access to a son or daughter.
An attorney may be able to help you resolve disputes between yourself and your former spouse or partner related to child custody or visitation rights to a child. He or she may be able to use visitation journals or statements from a child’s doctor to show that you are fit to have an active role in your child’s life.
