With the kids helping, you'll get more work done, and you can talk together while you work. This is a great time to share stories about your life as a child and how it compares to life for children today. Maybe you can bring up one of the issues you need to raise with your child. Or just share jokes and laughter together. It can be especially challenging to keep in touch with children when you live apart from them.
Some parents call to read a story over the phone or send a book tape for their child to listen to.
Ask your children's school to send you notices and newsletters to help you stay in touch with your children's events and activities. Keep in touch by e-mail if you have access.