As technology continues to evolve, virtual visitation has become an increasingly valuable opportunity for co-parents who want to maintain a strong connection with their teens despite physical distance. For many families, virtual visitation arrangements offer flexibility and consistency that traditional co-parenting schedules may lack.
With that said, it’s important to approach virtual visitation arrangements thoughtfully, perhaps especially when it comes to teens whose schedules may already be overloaded. By employing a virtual visitation approach that is uniquely tailored to an individual teen’s needs – and their family’s circumstances – this opportunity can foster connection and lead to the creation of lasting, meaningful memories.
Getting creative
Teens are typically tech-savvy and comfortable using various communication platforms. In addition to video calls, consider incorporating text messages, email, social media accounts and instant messaging apps to stay in touch. A variety of platforms can offer diverse ways to communicate and keep the interaction engaging and relevant.
Once you’ve connected, you don’t simply have to wait for the conversation to flow. Engage in activities that interest your teen. This could include playing online games together, watching movies simultaneously while video chatting helping with homework, or discussing their favorite books or TV shows. Having an activity at the ready can take some pressure off of the interaction.
To that end, the quality of interaction often matters more than quantity. During virtual visits, work to ensure that you are fully present and attentive. Put away distractions, listen actively and show genuine interest in your teen’s life. This attention can make a significant difference in how connected your teen feels, and how successful your efforts at remaining connected are when push comes to shove.
Finally, while it’s important to stay connected, it’s also important to respect your teen’s need for independence and privacy. Understand that there may be times when they are busy or not in the mood to talk. Being flexible and respectful of their space can help you maintain a healthy balance.