Many working parents are required to travel for business, forcing them to make a choice between working and parenting. When this happens to you, there are two main options: leave the kids behind and parent long-distance, or bring them along. Each choice has pros and cons, and no answer is right for every family.
Long-Distance Parenting
If you choose to leave your children at home under the care of a partner, family member, or babysitter, there is still plenty to do before you leave!
First of all, make a list of the important upcoming events, team practices, deadlines, or homework due dates that you probably keep in your head. Write down anything you can think of that whoever is caring for your children will need to know. Also make sure to write down emergency phone numbers for yourself (if you have a cellphone, include this number) and any other emergency contacts, in case something goes wrong.
In addition to putting together your own schedule, draw up a schedule for each child so that their caregivers know what’s supposed to be going on and the children’s routines are not disturbed more than they need to be.
Once you’re away, check in daily after your work is done at a pre-appointed time, reassuring your children that you’ll be back soon and talking with the caregiver about anything major that happened that day. Then, take the time to relax and enjoy a little time away!
Bringing Kids on Business Trips
Parenting directly on business trips is not an easy option, so you should be forewarned and prepared. If at all possible, leave the children at home with a caregiver and parent long-distance. If this is impossible for some reason, you may have another alternative, depending on your destination and child.
Consider carefully the temperament of your child. If he cries a lot or can’t be quiet during meetings, it’s probably not a good idea to bring him along. And remember, even if he used to be a good business traveler, he might not be anymore as kids often change and grow louder with age!
Also, think about your colleagues. Make sure you have a backup plan if your child begins to cry or disturb an important presentation, and tell your colleagues and the organizers of any conferences or events that you are bringing a child, to allow them to accommodate you better.
You have another professional appearance to think about, too: your child’s! The dress and mannerisms of your child reflect well — or poorly — on you, so be careful to leave extra time to get ready and remind your child frequently to mind his manners.
Whether you choose to leave your children at home or bring them along for a business trip, parenting while working can be a difficult proposition. Carefully consider both your child’s needs and your own when you make the decision, so you can avoid the horrible realization that you made the wrong decision while the trip is in progress!
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