When a parent works out of town, it introduces unique challenges and requires proactive family planning. Here are some key things to consider:
1. Communication Routines
Regular communication is essential to maintaining strong family bonds. Establish consistent methods like video calls, text messages, or even shared apps that keep everyone connected despite the distance. These daily touchpoints can help bridge the gap for children missing the parent at home.
2. Financial Organization
Working out of town may mean different pay structures, additional living costs, or travel expenses. Ensure that the family’s financial plan is in order, with a clear budget and mechanisms in place to handle bills, household expenses, and savings goals. Consider setting up automatic payments to avoid any missed bills. This might also be a good time to review life insurance policies and retirement plans to ensure family security.
3. Childcare and Household Management
With one parent away, the burden of managing the home and children often falls heavily on the parent remaining at home. It’s important to plan for childcare, household tasks, and emergencies. Having a backup system in place, like a trusted neighbor or family member who can help with transportation or school pickups, can ease stress.
4. Estate Planning
A parent’s absence can highlight the need for thorough estate planning. If something unexpected happens, having a comprehensive plan in place can provide peace of mind. This includes updating wills, powers of attorney, and appointing a guardian for minor children. Ensuring financial and healthcare decisions can be made in the parent’s absence is critical for family security.
5. Emotional Considerations
Children, especially younger ones, may struggle with feelings of separation or anxiety when a parent works away from home. Open conversations about the situation and reassurance that the distance is temporary can help ease concerns. Explore tools like family counseling or support groups to manage emotional stress and keep the family unit strong. It’s important for the parent working out of town to also prioritize self-care and mental health, given the demands of balancing work and family at a distance.
6. Technology for Connection
Beyond just communication, technology can be a powerful tool for maintaining an active role in family life. Parents can use apps to stay involved in their children’s schoolwork, extracurricular activities, and even bedtime routines. Reading bedtime stories over video calls or watching a favorite show together can help maintain a sense of normalcy and connection.
7. Travel and Homecoming Planning
Working out of town often involves periods of intense work followed by time back at home. When home, prioritize quality family time, plan family activities, and ensure the time is spent re-bonding and catching up on missed moments. This also involves managing travel plans efficiently to avoid burnout from constant trips back and forth.
8. Long-Term Work Decisions
Evaluate whether working out of town is sustainable in the long term. Consider career shifts, remote work opportunities, or other options that might reduce the need for travel. Balancing work-life integration is key to maintaining both personal fulfillment and family stability.
In summary, when a parent works away from home, it’s essential to develop strategies that support emotional well-being, financial security, and family cohesiveness. With proper planning, the experience can become manageable, and the family can adapt to new routines that still nurture strong connections. Give the Davis Schilken PC team a call to make sure that your loved ones are taken care even if you aren’t there with them (303)670-9855.