4Regardless of popular belief, it's possible to be a good parent from prison. In fact, with current trends showing that children of incarcerated parents are at a much higher risk of getting into legal trouble themselves, it's imperative that the imprisoned parent step up. You may not be able to be there for your child on a daily basis, but you can still be there.http://thesituationist.files.wordpress.com/2007/07/prison.jpg
- Be honest with yourself and your child. If you made a mistake own up to it, and tell her why it was bad and how it caused you to be imprisoned.Keep or establish a good working relationship with your child's caregiver, whether that's your husband, wife, a close friend or relative. You are going to need their support, and they can keep you updated on what's happening in your child's life.Keep in touch, whether it's by phone, email or letters. Let your child know you are there for her. Send cards and gifts on birthdays and holidays. Feeling remembered and loved is very important to a child who may or may not feel abandoned by her incarcerated parent.Have your child visit you in prison. This can be tricky as the caregiver may be hesitant, but it goes a long way toward maintaining a relationship with your child. You can make the whole experience a positive one by preparing your child in advance about what to expect and by keeping a positive outlook.Take advantage of special programs and days at the prison. Most prisons usually have family time with special events put on by charitable organizations and churches. There are also other programs that make it possible for an inmate to participate in his child's education and in regular parent-teacher conferences.Just be there and listen. You may be in prison but it doesn't mean you can't listen to your child about his days and what's happening in his life.
