If a father very rarely sees his kids, should he spend the visitation with just the kids and close family?

Question

My brother has two daughters from his first marriage. He used to get them every other weekend, and one thing that the girls would complain about (Especially to their mother) was that my brothers best friend was always over there on their weekends with their dad. My brother and his friend would get so wrapped up in watching movies, playing video games, or doing "guy" stuff, that my brother would pretty much ignore his daughters. The girls and their mother have since moved across the country, and due to travel expenses, school, work, etc., this summer is the first time that my brother or any of the family has seen my nieces in almost 1 year. The girls only plan to stay 2 weeks (Long story, but it was partly their choice.) My brother just picked them up Friday and got them home early Saturday morning. Guess who is over at my brothers today? Yep, his friend. His daughters are barely here one day and already this friend is hanging out at my brothers. My brother enjoyes his company so.....

Answer 1

I think he's acting like an idiot.  He should spend that precious time with his daughters.  If I were you, I'd plan a get together w/ the brother, wife, nieces and other close family and make it clear this is a FAMILY event at your house--no mooch friends included.

You can always spend time with your nieces regardless if your brother is virtually ignoring them.  They would probably enjoy it--take them out to see a movie or to get nails painted or to a park or whatever.  At least then YOU will get to spend some precious time with your precious nieces.

Answer 2

Yes, your children come first before anyone. His children will alway be there and friends come and go.

Answer 3

What a terrible dad. Make sure he knows it.

Answer 4

Yes he should spend it with his children and family. Since you have already talked to him and he won't listen if he actually cares about his children he should listen to them. Maybe you could get them to bring it up to him and explain how they feel.