If you have grandchildren that you're not allowed to see, there may be steps you can take to remedy the situation. In some situations, parents may be required to provide grandparents with visitation, even when the adult relationships are strained. This is particularly true when a strong relationship has already been established. If you're being kept from grandchildren that you've had a loving relationship with, it's time to take action. Here are some steps you need to take to regain your right to see your grandchildren.
Find a Compromise
If your grandchildren are being kept from you, try to find a compromise. Their parents may not want you to have extended visits with your grandchildren, but they may allow shorter visits. If possible, sit down with your adult children and attempt to find a visitation solution that will work for all of you. If you're not sure what you did to create the divide, ask for clarification. There may be an issue that you can work together to overcome.
Attempt Mediation
If you and your adult child have difficulty communicating about the issues, you may want to sit down with a mediator. Mediation can help families overcome obstacles that are interfering with any healing that needs to be done. Not only that, but mediation may give your adult child the ability to explain their reasoning for withholding visitation from you. Working with a mediator may provide you with the opportunity to resolve family issues that will allow you to see your grandchildren again.
Join a Support Group
If you've been separated from your grandchildren, join a support group in your area. There are many grandparents facing the same situation you're in. They may be able to provide you with suggestions on how to proceed with your quest to gain visitation of your grandchildren. They'll also be able to provide you with the emotional support you'll need as you struggle to regain the relationship you once had with your grandchildren.
Seek Legal Representation
If your adult child has taken a hard stand against visitation, or divorce has created the separation, you need to seek grandparents rights law services. There may be legal avenues you can take to gain visitation of your grandchildren, especially if this is a recent event and you previously had a strong bond with your grandchildren.
If you're being denied visitation of your grandchildren, take action as soon as possible. There may be options available to help you establish grandparent rights to visitation.