When parents separate, the care of their child should continue to remain a priority. Even for those who do not have “primary parenting time,” parental involvement is still vital. Quality time helps parents to maintain a healthy relationship with their child after a divorce or separation.
Limited time with a child can be difficult. However, with so much technology and resources available, it is still possible to be an active parent. No matter your preference, review your current parenting plan and ask permission from the primary custodial parent prior to committing to one of the methods below.
Get Involved In Extracurricular Activities.
Your kids won’t be kids forever. As they grow up, you want to soak in every moment you can with them. Spending quality time with your child through their extracurricular activities allows for more opportunities to spend time together in a fun and engaging environment.
You can be more involved by:
- Coaching a sports team – With practices and games, you will have plenty of extra bonding time with your child. Be sure to keep your former spouse informed on practice and game schedules.
- Chaperoning a field trip – Take time off work to enjoy the day with your child and their classmates. Let your child’s teacher and former spouse know that you are interested in attending.
- Attending school events – Support your child in all their scholastic endeavors by attending events, both big and small. Discuss your participation in these events with your child and the other parent, so you don’t miss a thing.
- Attending appointments – Let your former spouse know that you would like to be present at any appointments involving your child’s medical, dental, and psychological needs.
Be the next point of contact.
Your former spouse may need some extra help when it comes to childcare. Offer to lighten the load by letting them know that you have the time to take over when help is needed. This could include anything from last-minute babysitting to pick-up and drop-offs tYour former spouse may need some extra help when it comes to childcare. Offer to lighten the load by letting them know that you have the time to take over when help is needed. This could include anything from last-minute babysitting to pick-up and drop-offs to school, appointments and other locations.
Just hang out.
Nothing is better than getting some simple quality time with your children at home. As a parent, it’s important to provide a balance between fun and responsibility. Find an activity you both enjoy and create a bond out of it.
- Read a book together
- Go on neighborhood walks
- Help them with homework
- Make meals together
Connect daily as a form of quality time.
Thanks to technology, you can still connect with your child even if you’re not physically with them. Find some spare time on your breaks or after work to communicate with them.
- Give them a phone call – If your child doesn’t have their own phone, let the other parent know that you would like to call your child frequently. Use this time to ask about their day. Letting them lead the conversation allows them to open up about what’s going on in their life.
- See each other on FaceTime or Zoom – FaceTime allows you to connect anywhere while maintaining face-to-face interaction. Not only do you get to hear your child’s voice, but you also get to see their smiling face.
- Send a quick text – If your child does have a phone, send them a daily text. Ask how their day is going, or just let them know you love them. Your child will appreciate that you are thinking of them.
Unsatisfied with your current parenting plan arrangement? Strieker Law Firm has the knowledge and experience to help you navigate parenting in a post-divorce situation. Contact us to learn more.
