Tips For Long-Distance Parenting After a Divorce
A long-distance move can drastically alter a family dynamic after a divorce. Maybe your former spouse relocated with your child to another state. Maybe you seized an opportunity and got a job far from home. Whatever the case, you may find that it is much harder to maintain a close relationship with your child when you are separated by dozens, if not hundreds of miles.
That being said, you can still be there for your child even if you are not "there," strictly speaking. A Texas family law attorney at Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC can help you figure out a new arrangement for custody that promotes a bond between you and your child over a long distance.
Make Frequent Contact
Staying in touch with your child sounds simple enough, but it can be complicated by external factors like time zones and work/school schedules. Setting aside just a little time per day or week to call and check in with your child can make a big difference. If your child is old enough to have a cell phone, you might have an easier time than trying to contact your child through your co-parent.
If you struggle to make contact, you might try holding yourself to a schedule. For instance, you might arrange to call your child every Tuesday at 7:00 PM. Younger children may find comfort in routine, as you slowly establish a "new normal" for regularly scheduled contact.
Communicate With Your Co-Parent
Your co-parent is likely to have more insight into your child’s life and his or her changing circumstances. Even if you and your former spouse have a rocky relationship, it may be in your best interests to remain civil so that you can stay in the loop about the child’s school, social life, and health.
This kind of communication might be addressed in a parenting plan during a divorce, giving you a reliable framework to refer to for any life updates.
Make Time Together Count
If you do not have majority physical custody of your child, you might only get to see your child a few times a year over a long distance. As such, it is important that you make the most of the time you spend together. While your child is visiting, take some time for fun activities or favorite pastimes and catch up with your child’s life. Though it might feel short, you can still create lasting memories during the days or weeks you have together.
Remember that you have a right to reasonable visitation with your child even if you live far away. If you feel that your co-parent is trying to undermine your relationship with your child, a family law attorney can advocate for you.
Meet With an Austin, TX Divorce Attorney Today
Long-distance parenting is emotionally challenging. However, you can still play an active, meaningful role in your child’s life. A Travis County, TX family law attorney at Powers Kerr & Rashidi, PLLC can help you create a functional custody arrangement for a healthy relationship. Call our offices at 512-610-6199 today.