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Taking the Kids™

When You're Traveling as a Single Parent

Look around. You’ve got lots of company. Single moms and dads are traveling everywhere with their kids. Many are divorced or widowed. Others were never married. A growing number of married parents find they can’t get away at the same time while some opt to take the kids on business trips. Such getaways can be rewarding, with precious one-on-one time. They can also be exhausting and a challenge, especially for those single divorced parents. Here’s how to keep your sanity - and have some fun.

  • LEAVE THE TENSION AT HOME if you’re fighting with your ex. It’s hard for the kids to relax and have a good time if they’re worried about their other parent.
  • JOIN FORCES with another family that has children similar ages or relatives. The kids will have built-in playmates but just as important, you’ll get a break—and some adult company.
  • TREAT HOMESICKNESS by encouraging the kids to call home as often as they like.
  • LOOK FOR OTHER KIDS at the hotel, on the beach or the playground so that you’re not required to be your child’s playmate 24/7. Encourage your kids to join an organized resort or cruise program for a morning or an afternoon so that they can make some friends.
  • ENCOURAGE INPUT from the kids. That’s especially important for parents who may live far from their children and don’t see them for months at a stretch. Kids change so fast they may have different interests than during the last visit.
  • SHARE A PASSION with the kids by introducing them to an activity you love, whether snorkeling, mountain biking or fishing. Learn a new sport together.
  • STOP TRYING SO HARD to keep everyone happy every minute. The kids need down time. So do you. That’s when some of the best conversations happen.
  • KEEP EXPECTATIONS REALISTIC and acknowledge you’re not going to become the family of your dreams in five days nor will the vacation, no matter how well planned, go off without a hitch. The kids will whine. It will rain.

And you’ll still come home smiling.

By: Eileen Ogintz

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