If you are having to relocate following a divorce, it can be difficult to imagine living hundreds or even thousands of miles away from your children. Technology makes it easier to keep up with your kids these days, but you will have to make an effort. You cannot put the burden on your children to reach out to you.
Children need both parents involved in their lives. The research clearly demonstrates that children who are engaged with both parents tend to do better in school, have better coping skills and keep away from drugs and alcohol.
To keep in touch from a distance, here are some tips:
- Ask your children how they want to communicate. Teenagers may prefer text or a messenger app, while younger children may do better with Skype.
- Be flexible with your children’s schedules. If your kids have other plans sometimes, ask to talk a different time. Do not get mad or angry.
- Ask your children about their hobbies. Read up on these things to have something to talk about, and perhaps even send items to encourage their interests without being asked.
- Use regular mail to send postcards of where you are to your children. Send small packages when you pick up something they might like. Sharing local culture gives you something else to talk about.
- Try to find ways to send quick messages each day to let your children know you are thinking about them, wherever you are.
Child custody modification
Change is never easy, even in the best of circumstances. Many people have to move across the country following a divorce, due to military or job responsibilities. But you deserve to have a relationship with your children, no matter how many miles are between you. If a modification is required in your child custody plan, you might want to talk to a lawyer before going to the other parent.