My DD dislikes the phone and staying in touch used to be a battle between us. Not what either of us wanted. We don’t talk as often as I’d like but junior and senior years were crazy busy. However, we do text every day. Even if it’s just a few lines or two and I have the ultimate hook - her brother. She loves to hear about him and see photos. For the first time ever, she has started calling me out of the blue just because she wants to talk. When she is actually at home, we are together all the time and very close. When DS goes away next year I expect he’ll be more communicative via FB messenger - his preferred means of communication. Don’t be disheartened if your child seems to completely disappears the first weeks of school. They are adjusting to so many new things that for some kids, it takes everything they have. It’s not personal even if it feels that way.
Totally agree with above. I love hearing about my siblings and talking to them, and I love seeing my dog.