Do the "boring" stuff.
If you get time together it’s tempting to want it to be special and fun every time, but what may matter more down the line is asking them to bring some homework, or volunteer for their extra-curricular activity.
You want time one-on-one with them, but they want to know you see their hard work, their interests, their intelligence, and they want to know you are there to help with the hard work, not just the fun times. ♡ Don't take over, but be willing to help out when your time falls on their work needs, be it homework or activity.
I hate hearing Dads say: “But I only get a little time, I want to plan it doing something fun, not watching them work on their school/extra-curricular projects or play with friends.” Those projects, those friends...that is parenting, letting THEM share THEIR life with you, and vice versa, take them on errands, to work. Show them how you “adult”. Be an example. Then have some fun along the way.
This is a hard one, but important for non-custodial parents. I get it, but the kids see when parents are only wanting to play. They want you to see them work too. It gives them a sense of pride. ~ M.F. (Virginia)