I never thought I would travel much for business; my travel desires only included personal or family vacations. When seeking employment after graduating college and in the early years of my marriage, I distinctly remember avoiding job openings that listed travel was required. However, once I began my blogging and social media career, it was clear that travel would be necessary in order to grow my business and properly represent my brand.
As a working mom and business owner, traveling has its ups and downs. I’m grateful for the opportunities that come my way, which help further my business and allow me to connect with others in this industry. At the same time, I know that my travel affects my family and the everyday routine we have established. Even though my kids are fairly used to my occasional trips and are well-informed, it still impacts them. After making various trips over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks for helping to lessen the impact. Check out the list below of ways to help your children be more comfortable when you’re traveling for business.
Travel Tips for Working Moms: Helping Kids Be Comfortable When Traveling for Business
1. Talk about where you’re going and show them a map
Before you head out on your trip, talk with your kids about where you’re traveling. Show them a map, especially if they’re young, so they can see where you live and where you’ll be headed. I find this helps my kids make a connection about my trip, plus as a bonus, they get to learn about other places!
2. Record yourself singing bedtime songs
One day it became evident that singing my kids’ goodnight songs over the phone was not enough. So, I recorded a video on my husband’s phone of me singing each of their bedtime songs. Now, whenever I have a business trip, my husband plays them my video so they can hear their songs AND see me.
3. Leave notes for each day you’ll be gone
Sometimes, before traveling, I pre-write notes for my son and daughter for each day that I’ll be gone. My husband then gives them their notes each day, so they can have a little of my words to read or hear (in the case of our four year old).
4. Call once or twice a day
While away, I try my best to call at least once a day (twice if I can). It depends on my schedule, but I know that calling before bedtime is a must. I also know that calling too much will not help with any possible separation issues, so I limit the amount of calls I make.
5. Bring back a small gift or souvenir
Every time I go on a business trip, I try to bring back a small gift or souvenir for my kids. A lot of times it’s a mini snow globe for my daughter’s collection and a toy for my boy, but the idea is that they’ll have a little trinket to signify that I was thinking about them while away.
I hope these simple tips for helping your kids be comfortable when traveling for business help your family. Traveling as a working mom can be tough – for both you and your family – but, with a little thought and planning, it can be a lot smoother!
If you travel for business, what tips can you share that help your kids and family be more comfortable while away?
Leave a Comment Below!