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For Parents Who Travel: How to Prepare Your Children for Your Absence |
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by jenlemen  (December 2006) (rank 9th) |
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As an artist and writer, I'm always looking for any chance I can get away to recharge and/or stock up on some inspiration for my work back home. This weekend is one of those times I am stealing away--without kids. Here's a list of things I always need to keep
in mind when I'm leaving the kids behind.
- Preserve the routine. I find my kids do much better when I'm away, if I leave their regular schedule as undisturbed as possible. Keeping them at home is preferable to sending them to someone else's house--especially in evening hours. If they do need to go outside the home, then I try to pick friends or family members who are big favorites, so it feels more like a treat than being shuffled around.
- Recite the plan daily. I am always forgetting this step, and it is essential to a smooth trip. As soon as you know you're going to be traveling, inform your kids. This gives you a chance to take their preferences for babysitters and caregivers into account; it gives them a chance to get used to the idea. This week I've been going over the plan with my kids everyday--so much that I hope when I'm finally gone, they won't feel like it's unexpected or a big deal.
- Surprise, surprise. I can't do this everytime, but in trips past I have left little treats or notes for the babysitter to dispense after I'm gone. The kids are happy to have a surprise and it is a loving reminder that even though mom is away on a trip, she still cares about bringing a smile or laugh while she's gone.
- Leave behind some favorites. In my house, hands down, this is the coveted laptop. Since my computer is the only computer in the house, when I need to take it on a trip, everyone is seriously disappointed. Since this trip is more friendly than professional in nature, I am leaving the computer behind. My kids will be delighted since this is their primary connection to games, movies and entertainment.
- Daytime check-in is best. There's nothing worse than calling home at bedtime so everyone can realize how much they wish you were home to tuck them in. I find that morning or afternoon check-ins are best. Kids are more chatty and less emotional about their day, and it's less upsetting for the parent at home who has to put everyone back together if my call releases the floodgates. Of course, it's always a good idea to remind your kids they can call you anytime they want to chat--even if it's at the bedtime hour.
Have you ever left your kids? What works when you do? Feel free to add your tips in the comments below.
