DJC#013 – Travelin’ Man: Staying Connected While Away from Home

Sometimes life calls for a solo adventure – a work trip, a guys trip, a couples trip or anything in between – and when that happens, it’s important to stay connected with our little ones back home. Whether you’re jetting off for business fun, being away from your child can be challenging.

My wife and I have traveled a ton with our children – especially the youngest before he turned two because who doesn’t love a free flight (most airlines do not charge a ticket for children under two if they sit on your lap). We’ve also been lucky to travel quite a few times without them – the older boys would be with their dad and the little one usually with my parents or my sister-in-law. So while our youngest is somewhat used to his parents leaving individually or together a few times throughout the year, it’s still never easy. Recently I went on a solo work trip to San Francisco for three days, and it reminded me how important it is to stay connected to our families when we’re away.

In today’s newsletter, I’ll share seven practical ways that have helped me keep the connection strong while I’m on the road. First and foremost, make sure you don’t forget to pack your journal with you! This can be your journal, the journal you use to write to your child or maybe you even have a special journal just for traveling. Let’s dive into these fantastic ideas that will make your absence a little easier for both you and your child.

Surprise Note

Before you head out on your journey, take a moment to leave a special note for your child to discover. It could be hidden in their lunchbox, tucked under their pillow, or placed somewhere unexpected. Let your imagination run wild!

This sweet surprise will remind them that even though you’re not physically there, you’re thinking of them and can bring a smile to their face. I usually go for under the pillow, but just sticking out enough where my son will notice it. Sometimes I’ll even draw a little picture on the note – some character my he’s been really into lately – to give it a little extra.

Daily Check-Ins

Technology is a wonderful thing, especially when it comes to staying connected. I mean it wasn’t all that long ago that we were amazed that we could talk on the phone through video! So leverage that technology to your advantage when you’re on the road.

Make it a daily ritual to check-in with your child through calls or video chats. Hearing your voice or seeing your face will reassure them that you’re still present and thinking of them. It’s a fantastic opportunity to catch up on their day, share what you’ve been doing on your trip, and offer words of love and encouragement.

Send A Message

In addition to regular check-ins, or at times even in replacement of regular check-ins, surprise your child with a special video or audio message. Record a heartfelt message sharing your love and telling them how much you miss them. It’s a thoughtful gesture that they can replay if they’re missing you. Seeing and hearing your familiar voice will provide them with comfort and a sense of connection.

For bonus points send a funny GIF or record yourself as an memoji – the Apple feature where your face will be an emoji and move with your facial expressions. I know my son loves these, and I bet your kids will too.

Set An Alarm

Traveling often means navigating different time zones and coordinating time between work meetings and events. To avoid forgetting your daily check-ins or scheduled activities, I’ve found setting alarms is helpful. Sometimes that means waking up earlier, or taking a quick break toward the end of my work day when I’m on the West Coast.

This will ensure you stay on track and maintain a routine even when you’re in a different time zone. Plus, it shows your child that no matter where you are in the world, you’re committed to staying connected. There’s nothing like wanting to talk to your child and realizing they’re already in bed.

Bring Home A Souvenir

While you’re away, keep an eye out for a small, thoughtful souvenir to bring back for your child. It doesn’t have to be extravagant; it could be as simple as stickers, a bookmark, or something related to their interests. This small token will show them that they were on your mind throughout your journey and that you wanted to bring them a piece of your adventure.

When our youngest was a toddler and my wife and I went to visit friends one weekend, she found this little airplane toy that he loved and thoroughly enjoyed playing with for quite a while (it even got a second life with our nephew!).

This can also backfire at times with your child’s expectations. I don’t know what my son thought I brought home for him, but he was not impressed with the San Francisco sticker and bookmark…at least at first. Make sure your child’s expectations are tempered. If you bring them a little something one time, you better remember to bring them a little something every time, or they’ll be disappointed and feel like you forgot about them.

Journal Your Feelings and Experiences

Traveling alone provides an excellent opportunity for self-reflection. Take the time to journal your feelings and experiences while you’re away. Capture the moments of joy, the challenges you overcome, and any insights you gain. These journal entries will not only serve as a way to process your emotions but can also be something to share with your child when you return—a glimpse into your journey and the growth it brought.

Also, journal to your child while you’re away from them. Let them know what you were doing and why you were away. Also let them know how you felt being away from them. It’s a good time to show them how traveling opens up another universe if they haven’t had a chance to travel yet. One day, when they’re reading what you wrote to them, it can give them a new perspective and understanding of your time away.

Express Gratitude to Your Partner

If you have a partner who is holding down the fort while you’re away, take a moment to express your gratitude. Send them a heartfelt message or call to thank them for their support and the incredible job they’re doing taking care of your child. Recognizing and appreciating their efforts will strengthen your partnership and remind them that you value their role in your family dynamic.

You can also do everything previously mentioned in relation to you partner as well as your child(ren). I like to leave a note for my wife under her pillow as well as my son (although I completely forgot to do this for her and our son this last time). It’s the little things that let them know you’re thinking about them when you’re far away.

Landing

As you embark on your solo adventures, remember that staying connected with your child is just a few thoughtful gestures away. From surprise notes to regular check-ins, small souvenirs to heartfelt expressions of gratitude, these seven strategies will keep the bond strong and reassure your child that they are always in your thoughts, no matter the distance. Enjoy your journey, make lasting memories, and return home knowing that your connection with your child remained unbreakable. Safe travels!