Business Trip with your Child

Filed in archive Politics of Parenting on April 30, 2006

My work involves a lot of travel. And it was a pretty challenging situation in the beginning as I struggled between work and being a mom. Thankfully, the company I work for do understand my situation and this has helped in successfully reducing the amount of travel that I do.

During those times when it is imperative for me to travel for more than 3 days, I have found the perfect compromise. I turn some of my trips into mini-vacations. I bring my husband and son with me.

"Turning business trips into mini-vacations is a win-win situation, IMO.

Instead of worrying and pining for my family, I am not distracted and have more energy for work, knowing that they'd soon be joining me for a short R&R."

Much of these trips have been educational for my son, too. It has also improved his social skills as he has gotten used to talking to adults.

Honestly, though, it didn't use to be so easy. We had to learn our lesson the hard way. The more trips we took as a family, the more we learned about the needs of our young child. It truly has to be planned accordingly. We had to make sure that he had something familiar (toy, pillow) and that we had enough to entertain him. The fact that more and more business hotels are now kid-friendly did help a lot, too. Inter-Continental even has a Kids-in-Tow program.

There is a workable solution to everything. You just need to remember where your priorities lie. The moment this arrangement becomes impossible, I know which one I will give up. Family will always be my number 1, no matter how much I like and enjoy my work.

What about YOU? Have you ever brought your child with you during your business trip? What has been your experience? Any tips?