Co-parenting is one of the best arrangements to have after a divorce, both for children and for the parents. However, not every set of parents will stay within a close distance of each other for their child’s entire childhood.
In these situations, is it still possible to make long-distance co-parenting work?
Quality vs. quantity
Sometimes one parent has to move away from their child or co-parent. The reasons can range from that parent serving as an active member of the military, or them needing to move to a sick or elderly relative’s place to care for them.
Onward discusses long-distance co-parenting and how it works out. Fortunately, it is entirely possible to make long-distance co-parenting work, and in fact, many co-parents across the nation make it work every day.
The biggest thing to keep in mind is to value quality over quantity. Obviously, the parent who moves away will not get to spend as much time with their kids as the custodial parent. This means it is more important than ever to ensure each moment spent together has meaning or helps reinforce a bond.
For example, the co-parent who moves away should still stay on top of what is happening in their child’s life. What is going on in their school? Are they doing any extracurricular things? How are their friends? What is their social life like? Ask questions and maintain genuine curiosity and interest.
Keeping your child comfortable
One should strive to meet their child where they are comfortable, too. Some children require a higher level of contact and communication and may want a co-parent to reach out multiple times a day. Others may find that smothering. If a parent meets their child at their comfort level, each interaction will go better.