A father communicates his extreme sadness regarding his child living hundreds of miles away after a divorce. He is concerned that his child may forget him after his mother moved the child far away. Divorce is difficult enough on all family members, while long distance parenting creates additional obstacles. However, solutions exist to remain close while parenting children in challenging circumstances. Bonds between child and parent are not easily broken when efforts are made to keep connected and convey they are loved.
It is important to note that despite the distance, you are a critical role model in your child’s life. Although you cannot be physically present, an emotional connection is absolutely attainable. If an amicable relationship exists with the co-parent having joint custody, express to them that you would like to see the child more often.
Keeping in touch with your child via phone calls or Skype is another option to let a child know you are there for them. Keeping a regular schedule will communicate to the child they are wanted and loved, especially as they look forward to daily or weekly discussions with you. Children respond well to structure and routine events. Work out a schedule that will not interfere with extracurricular activities or during meal times.
Lastly, if your child is old enough to have a cell phone, providing one may be a viable alternative to stay in constant contact in spite of the distance separating you from each other. Inform the child that they may call your cell phone whenever necessary. If they are not old enough, try to work out with the co-parent times of the day that the child may respond to emails or calls on a regular basis. In addition, schools are more prepared for such situations and provide access online to the school’s website to keep up to date with children’s report cards or events happening within the school. Often teachers will cooperate and send periodic updates of your child’s progress.
Towson Divorce Lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC Resolve Long Distance Child Custody Matters
Should you find as a non-primary custodial parent that you are unable to work out regular contact with your child, our Towson child custody lawyers at Huesman, Jones & Miles, LLC represent clients in Maryland divorce cases including clients seeking modified child custody arrangements. Family law issues are stressful; our job is to help you sleep at night. Our Towson divorce lawyers can advise you on all family law matters including divorce, alimony, and child support.
Our offices are located in Hunt Valley, Maryland to serve clients in Baltimore County, Carroll County, Harford County and Howard County, Towson, Bel Air, Columbia, Westminster and Essex. Call for a free confidential consultation at 443-589-0150 or fill out our online contact form today.