For parents who feel alienated from their children, finding ways to stay connected can be difficult. One thoughtful and meaningful way to maintain that connection is by creating an email account for your child.

Throughout the years, as you work to reestablish contact, use this email account to send messages to your child. Share your thoughts, express your love, and let them know how much you care—just be sure to keep the content positive and focused on your relationship with them, rather than on any negative feelings towards your ex.

When the time is right, you can hand over the username and password to your child, allowing them to see just how much you’ve thought about them over the years. Knowing that you’ve been fighting to stay connected since birth can be a powerful way to show your love and dedication, and it may help bridge the gap between you.

This is also a nice to do for your children whom you may not be alienated from.