What subject(s) does this advice apply to?
Communication between divorced parents
Dealing with long distances between divorced parents
Easing emotional trauma
Establishing new routines

Describe the situation or problem.
The children are living with you and you're feeling all of the responsibility. The kids and your ex are frustrated because they're missing out on the day-to-day aspect of each other's lives.

What advice can you offer?
If you are the primary caretaker, make a commitment to yourself to keep your ex informed and involved in your children's lives.

1. Let your ex know of any after school activities your child is involved in (religious classes, arts & crafts, music programs, scouts, sports).

2. Let your ex know of important events in your child's life (athletic events, recitals and performances, etc.) so that he/she can plan to attend (give as much notice as possible: remember the golden rule!).

3. If your child regularly spends time with both parents, and it is geographically feasible, alternate years for hosting birthday parties or other special events such as end of the year parties or celebrations.

4. Take and share photographs of your children's activities with your ex. Take pictures of your children in their Halloween costumes, at scout activities, playing sports, or just hanging around with friends. Help your child write a letter to send with the photos.

Please add any additional comments or suggestions.
My daughter and her dad have a close relationship today because of the work we all did to keep the lines of communication open after he moved 1 1/2 hours away.

This advice is most appropriate for parents with children in...
Preschool and Younger
Elementary School
Middle School
High School & Beyond