Geographical distance may indeed play a part in teenagers' feelings toward a parent. Understanding Time Children of all ages need to have clear and exact understanding of how and when they will have that all-important contact with parents. When children don't know when they will see or hear from a parent, it necessarily adds to their pain. Children, who have no idea of the next contact with the parent, feel tremendous loss and grieving at the end of each contact with that parent. Parents can reduce stress for children by telling them their exact itinerary.
Children have a poor sense of time, and hence the length of separation frequently is misunderstood.
The concept of time is not well understood until after age 6 or 7. Tips for Long-distance Parenting Keep the rules and routines during separation as much the same as possible. Such structure helps to make children feel secure. Express affection by sending cards, letters, and gifts. Send post cards.