Feeling abandoned and being separated from a child are two of the most painful experiences a person can have. I have learned this by listening to many children who have felt abandoned by death or divorce and from parents who have been separated from their children, usually through divorce.

Most of the parents who relate their pain to me are fathers. That’s because in my state of Michigan, fathers automatically get less time with their children than do their ex-wives, unless they hire a good lawyer and fight for shared custody.

Studies show that when fathers get less time with their kids and especially if  they are separated geographically, the relationship between the father and his kids slowly disintegrates. This is a terrible situation for both Dad and the kids, so here are a few ways that you can help prevent this from happening if you are separated from your kids.

1. Expect your kids to go through a period where they don’t want to see you because they’re mad.

When this happens, don’t take it personally and whatever you do, keep the contact up. Email, hand-write letters or call at least every other day. If you were living in the…