help me with some career advice?

First and foremost, your manager SHOULD have an open-door policy. Any employer who does not encourage (even minimally) some type of communication between managers and the employees they manage, is NOT the type of company in which one will thrive.

My advice is to seek other employment....While doing so, it sounds like you have a very real situation with your current employer. As unfortunate as it is, you simply must tell your manager that you need to schedule some time to discuss your work schedule.

You may ease the "seriousness" by saying something like, "Joe, I would like to schedule 15 minutes to speak with you this week about my schedule. What day is better for you...Monday, or Friday?" By using this approach you are giving him/her clear expection, time frame and choices (don't give him/her many choices). You may do this in person, which is most effective, or over the phone, then follow up if you don't get a response.

When you meet, discuss your willingness to assist with scheduling challenges, however you would like to understand if there is any flexibility. Discuss, options, how work will get done if you utilize a more flexible schedule, or different shift. Ask if there is any way you can work on a rotational basis...for example 6 months on a day shift, 3 months night, 3 months day, etc.

In any event, go into the meeting with possibilites, not just your desire to work on an earlier shift. Additionally, you may want to speak with other employees to learn how they manage the various shifts along with family responsibilities.

Good luck!