Virtual visits have become an increasingly common component of child custody arrangements, especially when physical distance or other circumstances make in-person visits challenging. These interactions allow non-custodial parents to maintain a meaningful relationship with their children through video calls, messaging apps and other online communication tools.
Understanding how virtual visits work and implementing strategies to enhance their success may make preserving the bond between parents and children easier.
Tips for successful virtual visits
By ensuring that these interactions are consistent, engaging and supportive, virtual visits can successfully complement in-person visitation to help maintain solid parent-child relationships regardless of physical distance.
- Ensure a distraction-free environment: During virtual visits, it’s essential to minimize distractions. This undivided attention makes the visits more engaging and meaningful.
- Plan activities: To keep the visits interactive and fun, plan activities that can be done together virtually. Reading a book, playing an online game or working on a craft project can make the time spent together more enjoyable and memorable.
- Encourage open communication: Use this time to discuss daily activities, share stories, and express interests. Encouraging the child to share their thoughts and feelings fosters a deeper emotional connection.
- Utilize technology: Take advantage of technology to share moments outside of scheduled visits. Sending photos, short videos or messages through secure platforms can involve the parent in the child’s daily life.
Be patient: Adjusting to virtual visits can take time for both a child and parent. Patience and persistence are crucial to developing a comfortable and rewarding virtual relationship.
A custody agreement may specify virtual visitation rights. It can outline the calls’ frequency, duration and timing, etc. to ensure regular and meaningful contact. Working with someone who can assist with parenting plan specifics can, ultimately, be beneficial given what is at stake.