It is tough to really get to know your child as a non-custodial parent. Especially when you are dealing with a custodial parent whom is trying to the non-custodial parent out of the child’s life. Without the day-to-day interactions with the child, it is hard for the non-custodial parent to really know what the child is into, and what he or she enjoys.

When the non-custodial parent does have contact with the child, it is important to remember to ask questions such as “what cartoons do you like to watch” or “what is your favorite TV show?” “Is red still your favorite color?” And “What’s your favorite toy right now?” These types of questions will help to keep the non-custodial parent involved with his or her child. If the non-custodial parent knows what cartoons or TV shows the child enjoys, then the non-custodial parent can make it a point to watch the same shows. This will give the two something to talk about on the phone, as well as the non-custodial parent can let the child know that when he or she is watching, so is the parent, so it is almost like being together. This can help to keep the bond between the non-custodial parent and the child strong.

By knowing what the child’s favorite color is, the non-custodial parent can send small gifts for the child in his or her favorite color, which will make the child, feel special that the non-custodial parent remembered. And by knowing what the child’s favorite toy, or current hobby or interest is, the non-custodial parent can do research on the same topics, to stay current with what his or her child is interested in. And when it comes time for gift giving, the non-custodial parent will know what the child likes, and not have to wander aimlessly around the toy store scared to death of getting his or her child the wrong toy.

By asking the child these, as well as similar questions every so often, the non-custodial parent will be able to stay current in his or her child’s life, interests, likes and dislikes, regardless of the distance between the two. By keeping up to date with your child you are maintaining a connection with your child. The child will not feel the distance from the non-custodial parent as much, if the non-custodial parent doesn’t constantly need an explanation of what it is the child is talking about. When the parent seems to have no idea what the child is talking about, the child will take is as the parent is disinterested in the child, and it will be easier for the custodial parent to push the non-custodial parent out of the child’s life. So by staying up to date with what the child currently enjoys, the non-custodial parent is letting the child know that he or she does care about the child, as well as what is going on in his or her life, no matter how great the distance is between the two.