If Non-Residential, Maintain Consistent, Quality Contact

Ah, the non-residential parent life: you’re basically a part-time magician, conjuring up connection from a distance while dodging WiFi dead zones and the dreaded 'Sorry, can’t talk, I’m busy coloring!' rejection. If your parenting toolkit includes video calls, surprise postcards, and the occasional existential crisis about whether you’re doing enough—this is your jam. Let’s be real: you’re not just keeping in touch, you’re keeping the love alive, one awkward emoji at a time.

Consistent, quality contact tells your kid 'I’m here for you'—even when you’re not physically there. This boosts their sense of security, strengthens attachment, and builds resilience (translation: fewer teenage eye rolls later). For you? It’s a dopamine hit every time they answer your call, plus a little less of that 'Am I even doing this right?' brain fog. Real science: regular, loving interaction wires kids’ brains for trust and connection.

How to do it

  • Schedule regular calls or video chats. Put them on your calendar just like you would a dentist appointment—only much more fun! Treat these catch-ups as non-negotiable time together.

  • Send goofy texts, voice notes, or even snail mail. Bonus points if you include stickers or a classic dad joke to brighten their day.

  • Show up for the big moments, like school plays or birthdays, but don’t forget the small stuff too—celebrate a lost tooth or check in about their wiggly pet goldfish.

  • Ask questions and really listen to the answers. Give them your full attention: no multitasking, and definitely no checking your fantasy football scores while they’re telling you about their day.

  • Celebrate the weird and wonderful ways you connect, even if it’s just five minutes spent talking about dinosaurs or sharing a silly story.

Key Tips:

  • Consistency matters more than perfection—regular, small gestures go a long way.
  • Personal touches (like inside jokes or shared interests) help strengthen your bond.
  • Being present, even virtually, shows you care and makes your time together meaningful.

After you brush your teeth at night.

Send your child a quick goodnight text or voice message.
Smile and imagine your kid rolling their eyes (but secretly loving it).
Save your child’s contact info and favorite video chat app on your phone’s home screen.

When you sit down at your desk for work.

Write a one-sentence note or doodle and address it to your kid.
Give yourself a high-five or do a quick happy dance at your desk.
Buy a stack of silly postcards or greeting cards and keep them near your desk.

When your phone reminder buzzes.

Dial your child’s number—even if it’s just to say hi for two minutes.
Say 'Nailed it!' out loud, or reward yourself with a piece of chocolate.
Set a weekly calendar reminder labeled 'Call the Kid!'

After you take a photo of something fun or interesting.

Upload the photo to the shared album with a quick caption.
Picture your kid’s smile or send yourself a thumbs-up emoji.
Create a shared digital album for photos and drawings.