Parents, leaving for vacation without the children, can cause anxiety and concern. Asking your self when is the appropriate time for parents to leave their children and head out for a much needed trip is often done with apprehension. So deciding when you should leave without them is your first concern. Usually the decision is made after mom and dad establish who can provide the best care while gone. Once you find someone you feel is qualified and can be trusted, a holiday can be planned.

Going on vacation as a husband and wife can be an outstanding opportunity for the mental and physical well being of a marriage. Mom and dad may realize they forgot how to enjoy each other’s company with out kids. They begin to talk to each other about something other then family problems. Enjoying each other’s company while learning how to laugh and bond as a couple instead of being at separate ends of the family union.

Being able to concentrate without the everyday distractions can be empowering. When you return to your normal family life you may find you have a plan that you and your husband will initiate together making your family stronger and wiser. Vacations have been known to energize the parents and provide you with fresh ideas the children will benefit from as well.

Planning your trip ahead of time can make the difference. You’ll be able to leave for your vacation with no anxiety knowing when you return you’ll be ready to resume your daily life and do it with your partner standing by your side. So think ahead of time as to what you need to do in order to go away with a clear mind.

If you have animals putting them in a kennel where any need which may arise will be adequately taken care of.

Making sure any information needed for health care, insurance or forms required for immediate medical care have been signed and are in a place the sitter can quickly access.

If the children require medication the proper dosages and instruction are assessable.

Preparing grocery lists which have the types of foods your children eat. Leaving enough money for the sitter to purchase any items they require while you’re gone.

Having your children’s schedules clarified, if needed for school or sporting obligations with directions and maps to where the sitter has to take them.

Calling your school and letting them know, who will be bringing or picking up your children in your absence. In some cases you will need to sign papers required by your school district. Make sure this is done before you leave.

Leaving enough money for your children’s needs for the time you’re gone.

Making sure your mail is taken care of. It’s probably best to stop the mail and pick it up at the post office when you return. (This is one less thing your sitter has to worry about).

Making sure your children are comfortable with their babysitter. If possible you and your sitter should take ample time to tour your home and make sure she feels at ease while staying in your home.

Going on a much needed vacation can strengthen a marriage and recharge you for the coming months. However, going away requires planning and follow- through. The above are just some of the things you need to think about prior to leaving. Each family has different issues to address. Be thorough; think about anything that could take place in your absence. Begin this process long before you leave for your trip.

Once you plan ahead you’ll be able to use this list every time you go away. Write a list of things you will have to do before leaving. Keep the list on the counter where you can add things as you think of them. Put the list in outline order. Prioritize and discuss the inventory with your spouse. Then decide who will do what from the list. Don’t hesitate to ask your children what they think you may have missed as to their needs. Let them know phone numbers for hotels will be accessible for them. And assure them you will be calling to check in whenever possible. Having discussions with your children before hand will help them adjust to the thought of you not being there. Not talking about the vacation will not make it easier for you or your babysitter.

My daughter and her husband are leaving tomorrow for a week’s vacation without their children. Noah 4 and William 13 both need to understand what mom and dad are doing and how long to expect before they will return. My sister and I will watch the two younger children and I suggested we get a calendar, therefore allowing them to see when their parents will return. There is some anxiety for Diane and myself. It seems Noah loves us both however, doesn’t like it much that mom and dad are farther away then usual, and that he will not see them for a longer period of time. I’m sure we’ll be fine, however, planning and discussing what they can expect is part of being prepared.

Here’s hoping grandma has given you some good ideas for when you and hubby, go off to revitalize your marriage. When you get home…get ready to rethink what your family can do to stay strong and value oriented. It’s a harsh world we live in and we need all the help we can get…

My best,

Dorothy


 

2 Responses to “Parents on Vacation without the kids..”

1. Laurie Mattson on January 19th, 2008 at 8:19 pm

   HI! My daughter and her fiance will be married in July, 2008. They want to take a 4 to 7 day vacation, and leave my grandson with me and a reliable sitter that he knows. Will this be good for him? I feel anxiety will set in..it’s a long time to be gone. I await your reply. Thankyou! Laurie

2. grammolo on January 26th, 2008 at 2:15 pm

   Laurie, This is my first moments on the computer since my surgery January 18th. Sorry it took so long to respond. Yes, your grandson will be fine, and if I had an opinion it would be to teach children sometimes, they may have to be separated from family. Laurie, you will have to be the umbrella to step in even when he’s just with the babysitter. Have your daughter prepare little cards and things you can give him during her absence. If he’s old enough begin letting him know mom will be gone for so many sleeping nights and have a calendar where you mark off the days and show when she will return. I hope you will work with her and encourage your daughter to be well prepared with his needs, permissions, etc. and the tell her have a grand time..

   Do this as a family and have a reward of gram and mom time out with grandson shortly after she returns…where you share the fun you had while mom was gone.

   How old is your grandson? Please let me know what you think of my comments.

   My best, Dorothy