In recent years, virtual visitation has become a valuable tool for maintaining parent-child relationships in families that are subject to co-parenting arrangements. Virtual visitation involves using technology such as video calls, messaging apps and other online communication methods to facilitate contact between a child and whichever parent is not currently enjoying parenting time on any given day.
Including virtual visitation terms in a parenting plan can offer several benefits and considerations for co-parents and their children. Primarily, virtual visitation allows for frequent and flexible communication between a parent and their child when they’re not enjoying parenting time with one another. Regular virtual contact can help to facilitate a strong emotional bond and support a child’s sense of security and connection with both parents.
Benefits for children and parents alike
Incorporating virtual visitation into a family’s parenting plan helps to ensure that both parents have clear guidelines and expectations regarding digital communication. This consistency helps children adapt to a routine, knowing they can regularly connect with each parent. A structured virtual visitation schedule can provide a sense of stability that may otherwise be missing from a family’s dynamics.
For virtual visitation to be effective, both parents and children need access to reliable technology and an understanding of how to use it. Additionally, establishing clear guidelines around privacy and boundaries is important. Parents should agree on appropriate times for virtual visits, the duration of each session and the types of communication platforms to be used. It’s also important to ensure that virtual visits do not interfere with the child’s daily routine, schoolwork or sleep schedule.
While establishing a virtual visitation approach can take some effort, incorporating virtual visitation terms into a parenting plan can significantly benefit co-parents and their children alike. As such, it is an endeavor that is worth consideration.
