Virtual visitation is a common term for parenting time conducted in short bursts via electronic means. This arrangement can help co-parents stay closely connected with their children when the physical distance inherent in shared custody arrangements limits (at least, to a degree) opportunities for in-person parenting time.
Efforts can be made to make these interactions genuinely meaningful. When parents focus on shared experiences instead of simply asking children questions about their day, for example, they can make fun memories.
Younger children
For younger children, interactive reading and creative play often work best. Caribu allows parents and children to read books together, color, solve puzzles and play games during video calls. Websites like ABCmouse and PBS Kids provide educational games, songs and activities that parents can explore alongside children during screen-sharing sessions. Parents can also use simple scavenger hunts, puppet shows or virtual bedtime stories to maintain routines and comfort for younger kids.
Elementary-aged children may enjoy more collaborative and game-based activities. Platforms such as Minecraft allow parents and children to build virtual worlds together while chatting through video or voice calls. Kahoot! offers customizable trivia games that parents can tailor to their child’s interests, favorite movies or school subjects. Art-focused children may enjoy drawing games through websites like Skribbl.io.
Older kids and teens
For older children and teenagers, virtual visitation often works best when it feels natural rather than overly structured. Many teens enjoy online gaming sessions, collaborative playlists or streaming entertainment together. Parents and teens can use platforms such as Discord to chat casually while gaming or sharing media. Watching movies together through services with shared viewing features may also help maintain connection without forcing awkward conversation.
Creative teens may enjoy collaborating through apps like Canva or sharing music through Spotify playlists. Video-based apps such as TikTok may also give parents opportunities to participate in harmless trends, challenges or humor that interests older children.
The bottom line
Virtual visitation is often a great way to supplement in-person child custody arrangements. By using age-appropriate apps, games and creative activities, co-parents can potentially build even more meaningful connections that help children feel loved and supported in both households.