On behalf of Stange Law Firm, PC posted in Child Custody on Friday, April 3, 2020.
Some children who have divorced parents spend a lot more time with one parent than the other. It is often difficult for these kids to build a meaningful relationship with their noncustodial parent. Because of this, the custodial parent must accept a primary role in fostering the relationship between their ex and their child.
No matter what type of relationship you have with your ex, you need to be willing to look past the issues between you and them. Your focus right now must be on helping the children find ways to build their relationship with the other parent.
One of the primary things you can do to help the situation is to ensure that the children have ample access for communication. In a time when virtual connections are easy to establish, there shouldn’t be any issues with this. The children may call their parent when they need, but there are so many more possibilities that exist.
Video chats are one option that might help strengthen the relationship. The absent parent might be able to help with homework or read the child a book via this chat. They can take time to just talk in the same manner they would if they lived in the same home.
Try to help the children get excited about their visits with the other parent. Let them know that you want them to have fun while they’re there. Keep in contact when they visit the other parent, so they know that you’re still there for them.
The parenting plan that you set up with your ex should address some of the logistical concerns of the situation. For example, it should outline the parenting time schedule and how transportation should be handled. The more detailed the agreement, the more likely everyone involved will be on the same page.
