Virtual visitation, also known as electronic parenting time, has become an increasingly popular way for parents to stay connected with their children when children are residing with their other parent. If approached in a thoughtful and child-focused manner, virtual visitation arrangements can provide a meaningful way to maintain parent-child relationships through video calls, messaging and other online communication tools when parents and children are apart.
When planning a virtual visitation approach, it’s crucial to consider your child’s age and developmental stage. Younger children, for example, may have shorter attention spans, so brief and frequent video chats may work better than long conversations. Toddlers and preschoolers may enjoy activities like virtual story time, singing songs or showing their toys on camera. Keeping interactions fun and engaging can help maintain their attention and help them look forward to virtual interactions.
For older children, virtual visitation can involve more interactive activities, such as playing online games together, helping with homework or simply having longer conversations about their day. Teenagers may appreciate more autonomy during virtual visits, allowing them to choose the platform and schedule that works best for them. It’s important to be flexible and adapt the virtual visitation to suit your child’s personality and preferences.
Crafting your expectations for virtual interactions
Maintaining a positive and encouraging environment during interactions is ideal. Virtual visitation should focus on building and maintaining a strong relationship between a child and parent. Avoid discussing adult topics, such as child support or co-parenting disagreements, during virtual visits. The goal is to create a low-stress and enjoyable experience for your child.
Parents should also be mindful of their tone and body language during virtual visitation, as children can pick up on tension or negative emotions, even through a screen. If you are co-parenting with your ex, know that positive communication and engaging activities can help reinforce the bond with your child and allow virtual visits to be something that they look forward to.
With that said, it’s important to keep in mind that virtual visitation can take some time to adjust to, especially if it’s a new arrangement. Be patient as your child navigates this form of interaction, and be flexible with how the visits unfold. Children may have days when they are less engaged or distracted during virtual visits, and that’s okay. Keep communication open with your co-parent and child to make necessary adjustments along the way. Should you have questions, keep in mind that personalized guidance and support are available.