These days, virtual visitation frequently serves as a vital tool for maintaining connections between parents and children who are separated by distance and the dynamics of parenting time schedules.
Until fairly recently, standard video chats and phone calls were the primary ways that families engaged in “virtual visitation.” However, over the past several years, a variety of apps and platforms have emerged to make these virtual visits more engaging, better ensuring that distance does not dilute the quality of interactions between parents and their kids of any age. The following are a few of the most popular.
Marco Polo
Marco Polo offers a unique twist on video messaging by allowing users to send video messages that can be viewed and responded to at the recipient’s convenience. This is particularly useful for parents in different time zones than their kids are in. The app enables parents and children to share moments from their day, tell stories and communicate in a more flexible manner. This can help even the busiest parents maintain a visual and emotional connection with their children.
Caribu
Caribu is an app that allows parents and children to read books, play games and do activities together in a video call environment. It’s like a virtual playdate. With an extensive library of books suitable for various ages, Caribu helps parents remain part of their children’s daily routines and learning experiences.
Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party)
For older children and teenagers, Teleparty creates a virtual movie night experience by syncing video playback and adding a group chat to Netflix, Disney+, Hulu and HBO. It’s a great way for parents and kids to enjoy movies or TV shows together. They can discuss the action in real time, sharing reactions and enjoying each other’s virtual company, just like a family movie night at home.
These apps and platforms are just a few examples of how technology is helping bridge the gap caused by physical distance, making virtual visitation a more engaging and meaningful experience. By leveraging these tools, parents can ensure that they remain a constant, involved presence in their children’s lives.
