Parents play an important role in providing opportunities and encouragement to their child, contributing to the development of personality and character. However, divorce can create an emotional and physical distance between a parent and child, making parents feel disconnected from what the child does with free time. Even when one parent does not see their child regularly, the child still wants both parents to take an interest in the things that they like. Whether children find happiness in sports, performing arts, or clubs, research has shown that children spend an average of five hours per week participating in some kind organized activity. Since young people typically choose these activities, they are an ideal way for parents to learn about the child’s interests.

When divorce occurs, parents have to find new ways to communicate with one another about their child’s activities. Studies show that it is common for parents to experience some conflict, especially for the first two years following the divorce. Even when there is minimal conflict, ex-spouses may find it difficult to communicate effectively with one another. Remember, children still love both parents and want them to be present in their lives. Web-based technologies can be the medium through which a nonresidential parent remain involved in their child’s activities.

These technologies can assist ex-spouses in sharing information. Using a shared calendar is the perfect place to list dates and times of upcoming events and activities. Whenever possible, it is beneficial for nonresidential parents to attend. When distance makes it difficult, parents can use “personal notes” as a reminder to talk with the child about his or her experiences. One child who lived far from her father used video sharing tools to upload a video-message of her singing the solo she would perform in her upcoming play.  This provided an opportunity for the child to share and the father to feel included. While parents cannot be at every event, the web allows parents to stay informed, express interest, and maintain an active and ongoing role in their child’s life.