- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- dads today articles
- dads today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
On the Road Again
The Trials and Tribulations of Traveling Dads By Tamar Weiss
"I hate leaving my family," says Joe Pappagallo, a father of two from New Rochelle, N.Y., who travels frequently on business. "It's hard for all of us when I'm away from them."
Although he dedicates his weekends to family time and maintains a routine with his kids on Fridays, he still feels guilty for being away. "I still feel like I'm missing something when I'm not home . but I have to work or I can't support my family."
Much to the disappointment of fathers and children, many men are forced to travel due to work requirements. Any mother remaining home with small children when Dad goes on a business trip can attest to the difficulty that children have when their father leaves home. Fortunately for the kids -- who will likely be saddened by Dad's absence -- there are ways of making the time away from you more manageable.
If your child feels sad that you're going away, legitimize these feelings. "Acknowledge that Mom misses Dad, too, and that even Dad doesn't like being away," Michelson says.
The more you tell small children about the details of your trip, the easier it will be for them to cope. "If possible, give your child pictures of where you'll be and talk about the specifics of your trip," Michelson says. "This way the child can actually picture what Dad is doing, and it won't be as if he has just disappeared into thin air."
Another good idea, she says, is to leave something with your child that either belongs to you or reminds your child of you.
Preparing Your Children