Imagine that it’s your evening with the kids, but instead of picking them up, you’re sitting at home with your phone in your hand. The other parent offers a quick FaceTime call as a substitute.
It feels like something—but is it the same as spending time together in person? It’s not unusual for parents to ask whether a FaceTime call counts as visitation. The reality is that video chats can be a helpful supplement, but do they carry the same weight as actually being with your child under a court-ordered schedule?
What Counts As Visitation in Texas
In Texas, visitation generally means a parent has the right to spend time with their child in person, as ordered by a court. That might be weekends, holidays, or more extended summer visits. The goal is simple: children need real, hands-on time with both parents. Video calls can help when visits aren’t possible, but they don’t replace face-to-face time.
That said, many courts now encourage “virtual visitation” as an additional way for parents and children to stay connected (Texas Family Code § 153.015). This can look like a nightly FaceTime call, a weekly Zoom session, or even a quick check-in before bed.
Judges often include language in custody orders that allows—or even requires—this type of communication, especially if parents live far apart or if travel makes regular visits difficult.
But here’s the key: those calls are intended to supplement in-person parenting time, not take its place.
If the Other Parent Offers Only FaceTime
Sometimes, one parent may try to substitute FaceTime for physical visits, whether due to work, distance, or conflict. Unless both parents agree or the court has modified the possession order, that’s not allowed.
You have the right to your scheduled possession periods, and the other parent can’t unilaterally replace them with a phone call. If that becomes an ongoing issue, it may be time to revisit the parenting plan with the help of a family law attorney. If you’re concerned about how your visitation rights are being handled, or if the other parent is limiting your time to video calls, it may be time to seek legal guidance to protect your relationship with your child.
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