Technology and Virtual Visitation: Tools That Keep Families Connected and Protected

When families go through divorce, one of the most important questions is this: How do we make sure the kids stay connected to both parents, even when they’re not physically together?

As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE®) here in Colorado, I’ve worked with many families navigating these transitions. And while my role isn’t to give legal advice, I do work closely with attorneys, mediators, and co-parents to help support the bigger picture—especially when selling or transitioning out of the family home is involved.

In situations where one parent moves out of the area—or in high-conflict cases where in-person time needs to be limited or closely managed—virtual visitation has become an increasingly valuable tool. Today’s technology doesn’t just make it possible to “see” each other over a screen. It offers features that help structure parenting time and create a safer, more transparent experience for everyone involved.

Why Technology Matters in Virtual Visitation

At first glance, virtual visitation might look like just a FaceTime or Zoom call. And while those can be great for quick check-ins, more structured parenting time often benefits from platforms that offer additional layers of support—like scheduling, logging, and monitoring tools.

Here are a few key features that families and professionals often look for in these platforms:

• Scheduled and Secure Video Calls
  Built-in calendars and automatic reminders help reduce miscommunication and forgotten visits. Some apps allow access only at scheduled times, which can be helpful for managing expectations and routines.
• Call Logs and Activity Reports
  These features help document how often calls occur and how long they last. In higher-conflict cases, this kind of reporting can give both parents peace of mind—and provide helpful documentation for legal teams if needed down the line.
• Child-Centered Design
  Some platforms offer interfaces designed to be simple and safe for kids to use on their own, while still giving parents or guardians the ability to monitor access.
• Third-Party Communication Tools
  Certain apps also include secure messaging features for co-parents, helping to keep conversations focused, documented, and free from conflict—something I see families appreciate when navigating post-divorce communication.

The Connection to Real Estate Transitions

So, how does this all tie back to my role as a CDRE®? When a family is selling the marital home—or when one parent is relocating—virtual visitation can be a bridge that maintains continuity for the kids. I often remind families: it’s not just about the property; it’s about making sure the child still feels connected, safe, and supported in this new chapter.

When helping clients prepare a home for sale or guiding them through a transition to new housing, I encourage them to think about where and how virtual visits will take place.

• Is there a quiet, private space for calls?
• Does the new location have stable internet access?
• Will the child feel comfortable connecting from this space?

These might seem like small considerations, but they can have a big impact on the quality of parenting time and a child’s overall sense of security.

Final Thoughts

Virtual visitation isn’t a replacement for in-person time—but it can absolutely be a meaningful supplement, especially when distance or circumstances get in the way. When supported by the right technology and thoughtful planning, it becomes more than just screen time—it becomes a space for real connection.

And while I leave the legal details to the attorneys, I’m here to support families in making sure their real estate decisions align with what matters most: the well-being of their children.