Advice for the absent/divorced parent

The main problem absentee parents (known in legal parlance as non-custodial) have is remaining a part of their child's life on a regular basis. There are several small things the parent can do to prevent this:

1) Make it easy for your child to call you. Get a toll free number or give them a calling card;

2) Start a photo album with your child, and take photos when you're together, then send them photos when they're not with you;

3) Use emails and instant messages to stay in touch daily. This not only shows you care but also allows you to visit in a way that doesn't intrude on your ex's daily life;

4) Start a "you and them" webpage at a site like MySpace. Both of you, when you're apart and when you're together, add items that are important to you;

5) Have nighttime story hour every night. You can do this by recording yourself on tape or a digital file reading a bedtime story to them;

6) Use a video camera or a web cam to record important events in your life and to chat back and forth;

7) Watch the same television shows while you're apart and discuss while watching them or later; and

8) Send self addressed and stamped envelopes so the child can write you conveniently.

Remember, it's the little things that make a difference.

Posted by Robert D. Bennett from www.bennettlawoffice.com