In some divorces, the noncustodial father becomes a kind of odd man out whose physical removal from the child makes him a visitor, not a parent.

No one denies that divorced parenting brings great challenges, particularly for the visitation schedule.

One of the unfortunate outcomes of noncustodial parenting happens when the parent remarries and has a second family with a new wife. Very often when this happens, the noncustodial parent drifts out of the life of his child who may blame himself or herself for the loss of contact.

Because visitation time is precious, the noncustodial parent should use it wisely, not dissipate it on barren activities like watching television. Shared experiences make for memories, and memories, unlike "stuff," last and often get better with time.

A noncustodial parent always remembers that support is his obligation. One should never be used as a wedge against the other by either the custodial or the noncustodial parent. Doing so, only hurts a child, who becomes cut to pieces in a crossfire between battling parents.

A noncustodial parent comes to understand that the halves are not equal and tries to make his or her half better. A noncustodial parent tries to make his or her spouse who remains the child’s other parent.