Traveling for work often means additional creativity is needed in the parenting department. Whether you find work-related travel tedious or enjoyable, here are 8 ways for the career-focused mom to keep things running smoothly at home while away for work.
Talk to the kids about your cool job: I try really hard to talk in a positive light about my job. I love having inspiring conversations with my kids about what they want to be when they grow up and how I love having a career. Let them know traveling can sometimes be another cool element of the job.
Leave notes for their lunches when you’re gone: Ask your husband/caregiver to leave notes in their lunches that you have pre-written so they can feel special knowing you are always thinking about them. Leave a little note for your husband too so he remembers how awesome and appreciated he is.
Use Technology: These days, it is a breeze to use technology so you can actually see your kids. Show them your hotel room, have them show you what they worked on in school that day. FaceTime is great to have live conversations and get to see their adorable faces. Another awesome app is called Marco Polo. You can record videos and then your loved ones can watch them when they have time (perfect for a trip that may be in different time zones making it challenging to connect live).
Stick to a routine: Be sure your husband/caregiver sticks to the kids normal routine when you travel. Kids rely on schedules and if that is disrupted, it can be confusing and upsetting.
Be in daily contact: Use the technology tips to figure out a realistic option to ensure you connect with your family every day. Crazy kids’ schedules along with your own long days on travel might prove a challenge, but find a way to conquer it.
Bring back souvenirs: This could break the bank if you are a frequent flyer. But for those who travel just some of the time, pick up something for your kids during your trip. Yes, it might be considered a form of bribery and a way to ease mom guilt but who cares.
Organize your spouse/caregiver: Help things stay calm on the home front by ensuring things are organized prior to your departure. My husband is an incredible dad but when it comes to things like remembering which kid goes where and at what time after school, well, it’s not his strong suit. Be sure to build it into a shared calendar and send reminders.
Arrange some relief for your spouse/caregiver:It’s not easy being the non-traveling parent. If possible, tap into grandparents, neighbors or other resources to help with things like carpool pickup or to help your spouse divide and conquer when multiple kids need to be multiple places.
Are you a working mom who travels? We’d love to hear other tips!
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Read more of Stephanie’s contributions to allmomdoes here.
