When Mom Travels for Work

When you’ve got kids we know that traveling for work can be especially stressful. That’s why we created Mom’s Away Blueprint. This blueprint also works great when you are traveling with your spouse and are leaving the kids overnight with a caregiver or family member. In addition to using our Mom's Away Blueprint, here are a few suggestions to help ensure that things run smoothly when you’re away.

If you are the primary emergency school contact, be sure to let your child’s teacher know that you will be out of town and provide the contact information to be used in your absence. Your child may have moments of sadness when you’re away; this is another reason to make sure that the teacher knows what’s going on at home so that she/he can better handle anything that comes up at school.
Make sure that whoever is responsible for the kids knows where the kids’ medications and first aid supplies are stored in the event of an unexpected illness or injury.
Let your kids know when you will be calling to speak with them each day. Make sure your spouse/caregiver knows when to expect this call as well.
Write special notes for your child(ren) to discover.
Leave a special treat for the kids (e.g. check out a favorite DVD from the library, purchase some new art supplies or some other inexpensive item that your child is currently excited about).
Make sure the house is organized and favorites (toys, books, food, etc…) can be easily located.
Make sure that clothes and all accessories are selected for each day that you will be away.
When filling out the “weekly schedule,” evaluate whether or not any after school activities or appointments should be cancelled/rescheduled to make the week easier and make appropriate changes.

Tips for mom:

Take along a book or magazine to read for fun during your plane or train ride.
Pack some workout clothes so that you can take advantage of the hotel’s gym.
Do some research BEFORE you leave about the city you’ll be traveling to and map out any sightseeing opportunities.
Buy a small gift for your child(ren), spouse, or caregiver.
Try to enjoy your night or nights off!

When you and your honey are away and leave the kids with a caregiver:

Leave a signed medical authorization for your child(ren). This will permit the caregiver/non-parent family member to consent to emergency medical treatment for your child(ren) in your absence.
Leave a copy of your health insurance card.
In addition to leaving money for incidentals and food, leave extra money for any emergencies.
When filling out the “notes for the week” give some real thought to the less obvious things about the house and your kids (e.g. a sticky lock, things your kids might get into or try to get into, location of the spare key).
If there are any changes in who will be picking up your child(ren) from school, be sure to download our free “Note to School” and provide permission for any changes.