One of the challenges that IT consultants face is managing the travel requirements of their position and the desire to be at home with their kids. While many families struggle with their children being constantly “plugged in,” social media and other technology outlets can bring families together when a parent is traveling. Here are five tips for staying in touch with your kids when you’re traveling:
Google Hangouts – Google Hangouts have seen a significant increase in popularity in bringing families together due to the ease of use and ability for multiple people to join a call. This is a great way to bring families together even if they’re spread across several locations (e.g. Mom is traveling, Dad is home with two kids, and third child is at school and has 30 minutes until basketball practice starts).
Send Pictures of the Trip – Sending pictures of your hotel room, restaurants you are visiting, or the plane you’re boarding helps the family know that you are thinking about them and you want them to share in your experiences.
Leave Notes for the Kids – Leave a note for each member of your family every day that you’re on the road. Kids can read the notes or have the notes read to them during dinner or right before bed time. The impact of a hand written note still goes a long way in our digital society.
Play Online Games – Just because a parent is traveling doesn’t mean they can’t hop online and spend half an hour with their children playing a game. This is especially effective for frequent travelers who can have their child pick the “Game of the Week”.
Schedule a Call – Block out time for your kids the same way you would a business meeting by asking questions about what’s important to you kids and being up to date on their schedule. Kids notice your attention to detail in their lives.
Have any tips you’d like to share about how you stay in touch with your family? Share them in the comment section below!
5 Ways to Stay in Touch with Your Kids While Traveling
by Eric Osterman on June 24th, 2014 | ~ minute read
