Tips on Parenting from a Distance

There are a lot of reasons why parents and children can’t be together. It may be the outcome of a recent divorce, a military duty or a business trip. Whatever the reasons may be, kids will feel some degree of loss, even abandonment. As parents, it’s our duty to make sure that the parent relationship remains strong despite geographical separation.

There’s no substitute for face-to-face parenting, but in times when separation is inevitable, we make do with what we have. We make the most of the available technology.

Video Calls

In the last few years, we have experienced massive advancement in technology which has also allowed cheaper means of communication. All you need is a webcam, a headset and an internet connection and you can engage in video calls with your kids to your heart’s content. Make sure that you set at least a weekly schedule for video calls so you can get updated always.

Mobiles

Make sure also that you both have access to mobile phones so you could contact each other every now and then. It’s also healthy to send emails regularly. Send pictures, even those which are not eventful. If you find a funny anecdote online, or a news item you’d like to share, send it to your child. Even when the information is easily accessible to your kid, at least he or she will feel remembered.

Online Gaming and Networking

If your kid is into online gaming, then it would be advisable to play together, as this could turn into one very good bonding channel. Join the same online social networks. Ask your kid to maintain a blog, and maintain your own too. This way, you are maximizing all possible means of watching over your kid as they grow up.

Across-the-Miles Celebrations

A video can easily update you on your child’s latest school activity – recitals, plays or sports events. It could also cover other significant events in your child’s life. On the other hand, it would also be wiser to celebrate very special events via video calls. While your child is having a party, you can also organize one in your place and invite a few friends over. This way, even from a far, the kid will still feel like you are a part of the most important celebrations in their life.

Responsiveness

On top of everything, make sure that all communications you receive is responded to. If you receive an SMS, reply. If you received a post card, send something of equivalent. If you missed a phone call, then return one. One single message with no response could pile up and lead to lesser and lesser communication. Maintain the momentum always.

But above all, more important than the quantity of time you spend communicating is the quality of communication you send. It’s vital that your child understand that proximity can’t bring down the parent-child relationship you already have. Tell them how much you care. Don’t hesitate to express your love. Always.