As a parent, you want to be with your children as much as possible but know that it is often impossible. You may have a busy schedule and realize that you won’t be the primary caretaker. At the same time, you want to have as much custody as possible.
How can you see your children more when you can’t be physically present? Virtual visitation may be something to look into. Virtual visitation sets aside time for you to visit with your child over a phone call, the internet, video gaming together and more.
Setting up virtual visitation time
One of the nice things about virtual visitation time is that it allows you see your child no matter where you are in the world. This kind of child custody is not intended to be a replacement for in-person custody days, but it can help you make up some of your missed visitation time by spending time with your child from afar.
Some of the excellent options for virtual visits include:
- Playing videogames together from different places
- Calling over a video call to do homework together
- Placing a video call to watch your child’s dance recital or sporting event
- Emailing with your child
- Texting with your child
- Sending video mail
- Instant messaging
All of these kinds of virtual visits help you keep connected with your child, so that you spend more time speaking even when you can’t be there.
When is virtual visitation a possibility?
Any parent can ask for virtual visitation, but it may be best for those who have jobs requiring them to travel or who cannot have more than a few in-person visits a week. Setting aside even an hour or two for a virtual visitation session in the evenings or every few days will help parents and their children keep a stronger bond that allows them to feel connected, even though they may no longer live together the majority of the time.
This is an option to discuss if you would like to increase your custody time but cannot be physically present more than you already are. It could be a great way to stay up-to-date on everything your child is doing.