Going on a trip and leaving the kids

When my husband used to go out of town he would make a calendar for the days he would be away. Each night when he would call to say good-night to the girls I would help the girls mark the day off on the calendar. That way the kids have a visual way to keep track of when you will be back. I would also maybe give them a little treat at the same time the calendar is marked off. Maybe a small piece of candy or a tiny toy (like a matchbox car). Another thing that I would do with the girls when my husband was gone was to do fun things with them that we usually wouldn't have done. One night we rented a movie, made a "nest" for a bed downstairs with pillows and blankets, and had ice cream, popcorn, and chips for dinner. The girls forgot that they were missing Daddy that night!

I have not left my children very much, but here are several things that I do when I must be away for a few days at a time. Firstly, spending a bit of time doing fun things with them before is a great idea! I also try to prepare a couple of meals that I know they all enjoy. My husband is very capable of cooking for himself and the children, but he is not used to being alone with them for more than a few hours. It's a nice treat for them to get a favorite meal prepared by mom and it's a treat for daddy to have dinner mostly ready. Our job can be a little overwhelming at times!

I would make a special day. It would be good for your kids and you to spend a day together before you leave. Maybe take them to lunch and the park. Or you could take them to the store to buy a special toy for when your gone. I would also give them each a picture of you. Then when they miss you they can look at your picture. And of course lots of hugs and kisses for them. Hope you have a safe trip!