Virtual visitation is the use of electronic communication — through Skype, e-mail, webcams, instant messaging and other similar online tools — to provide regular access for noncustodial parents to their children. Nearly 10 million children live without face-to-face interaction with one of their parents. Studies show children whose parents relocate after a divorce, resulting in one parent living more than an hour away, are significantly less developed mentally and physically than children whose parents do not relocate. Psychologists have determined that in order to establish and maintain a bond, young children should have frequent and ongoing parental contact.
In addition to face-to-face visits, virtual visitation can facilitate communication between noncustodial parents and their children by allowing them to have more meaningful interactions regardless of distance, traveling or long work hours.
