Article for Frolo
In this article, I explore how you can maintain meaningful contact with your children when they’re staying with their other parent — and why getting this right matters more than the number of calls you make.
I begin by discussing frequency vs quality: rather than forcing frequent check-ins just for the sake of it, I show how you can focus on moments that feel real and welcomed by your child. I explain three common approaches — scheduled times, spontaneous calls initiated by the child or parent, and a hybrid of both — and discuss the pros and cons of each based on your child’s age and daily rhythm.
I then turn to the format of contact: whether it’s a video call, a message, or a shared activity online, it’s worth adapting to what your child enjoys and what feels natural. I suggest ways to make contact feel less like a formality and more like you’re genuinely part of their life — whether that means reading a book together, playing a game or just listening to what they’re excited about.
Finally, I highlight that this isn’t a “one-size-fits-all” situation. What matters is feeling aligned with your child’s needs, respecting rhythms and being flexible enough to adjust as they grow. If you’re wondering how to keep the connection alive — not just visible — this article offers a thoughtful guide to staying present, supportive and in tune with your child’s world.