Having to leave your child on a business trip can be rough on your child and yourself. Newborns can be fussy customers with strong preferences regarding formula, pacifiers, swaddling, sleep and other daily fundamentals. Rarely, however, does a newborn give much thought as to who is holding him. Sure, he or she feels safe and warm with mom or dad, but chances are that they are perfectly content to curl up in Aunt Maddie’s arms. One of the things that helps with this is wrapping your kids in Swaddling Blankets for extra comfort and longer sleep.- Don’t make a fuss when you leave. If you cry and linger, they feed off your emotions. If mommy’s upset and scared, why shouldn’t he be? Don’t sneak out, but give a quick goodbye and walk out while his caregiver engages him with toys.
- Try playing peek-a-boo. Hide behind a doorway for increasing lengths of time, then pop back out with a big hello. These games will help them understand that when you leave their sight you’re not gone forever.
- Introduce a transitional object such as a blanket or stuffed animal (make sure there are no choking hazards). Your child may not immediately become attached to the object, but keep trying. Offer it any time he’s upset. Hold it when you’re holding him. Leave it in his crib (for safety reasons, keep the object fairly small for a young baby). Eventually it will become a familiar object to comfort him in your absence.
- For slightly older children, read my recent article Oh noooo, Daddy Forgot His Socks on some things I did on my most recent trip to help my 5 year old feel a bit more comfortable with my leaving. One thing to bear in mind, that while you are gone you should try to keep the connection with your child and call to say ‘good night’ and reassure them that you will be back soon.
Greetings! I’m Kevin, the founder and chief editor of More4Kids International, a comprehensive resource for parents worldwide. My mission is to equip parents with the tools and insights they need to raise exceptional children.
As a father to two incredible sons, I’ve experienced the rollercoaster of parenthood, and it’s these experiences that drive my dedication to making More4Kids a trusted guide for parents. Our platform offers a wealth of information, from time-saving parenting hacks to nutritious meal plans for large families, and strategies for effective communication with teenagers.
Beyond my professional role, I’m a devoted parent who champions the concept of an abundance mindset in raising resilient, successful children. I’m committed to fostering this mindset in my own children and am passionate about inspiring other parents to do the same.
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More4kids is written for parents by parents.
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