Parenting Time Via Skype

Divorced parents are often separated from their children by great distances. Skype or other online internet communication technology, such as Skype or Google Talk, can make it easier for parents and children to stay connected. Even babies and small children who can’t talk on the telephone satisfactorily, are often able to relate to a person they see on the television or computer screen.

Experts say that parenting can be accomplished even from long distances if the parent is patient and willing to work at the child’s level. If a child won’t pay attention or stay in the chair, it is better to try again another day rather than force the child to engage. If children are restless, parents can sing with them or read to them. If the parent has favorite rituals and games they often engage in with the child, those can be continued on line. This technology allows parents to stay up to date about developments such as wins at games or doing well at school. Parents can even do homework with a child by faxing or emailing homework to the absent parent and then working through problems with their child.   

For several years, courts have ordered that parents be allowed to have access to children for telephone calls and now for internet visits. The software for the connections are free, as is the time the participants use to talk to each other. Each participant must have a computer or smart phone as well as a camera. The cameras are relatively inexpensive, and additional speakers can be used to enhance the quality of a computer’s speakers.

Parenting time is not always easy or consistent due to long distances and/or work schedules. But now even something as complex as parenting time, can be accomplished in part electronically!  With 90% of communication being non - verbal, Skype can provide a greater level of interaction with your child than just a phone call.