Helping Children Cope with a Parent’s Relocation or Extended Time Away from Home
When a parent relocates or travels often for work, children may need different ways to connect with the absent parent. Whether for military duty, a coaching position, constant corporate travel, or any other job requirement, the emotional toll on children can be significant. While adults may see it as a necessary career move, children often feel sadness, confusion, and abandonment. These feelings may not always be communicated openly, leading to behavioral changes that parents might not connect to their absence.
If a child suddenly acts out, becomes more withdrawn, or experiences emotional ups and downs, it could be their way of expressing the sadness of having a parent away. Understanding this and implementing ways to maintain connection can help ease their distress and entertain the family.
Ways to Help Children Stay Connected and Feel Secure
While nothing can fully replace in-person presence, many ways exist to maintain emotional closeness and comfort children during these transitions.
Video Storytime
Smart phones allow many ways to connect that previous generations didn’t have. For example, a parent or loved one can record themselves reading a favorite bedtime story so the child can watch it whenever they miss them. This is especially helpful for time zone differences, when live calls may not always be possible.
Good Morning & Good Night Messages
Short video or voice messages can provide a sense of routine. A parent sending a quick “Good morning! Have a great day!” or “Good night! I love you!” can help the child feel connected. All children like a good Knock Knock joke.
Photo Memory Books
Create a small photo book of favorite family moments the child can flip through daily. Reviewing these pictures at bedtime or morning reinforces a sense of family closeness.
Special Comfort Items
The military often provides teddy bears with a deployed parent’s photo on the stomach. A personalized stuffed animal, pillow, or even a T-shirt with the parent’s scent can provide comfort.
Scheduled Virtual Calls
Having a set time for video calls—whether daily, weekly, or on certain special days—gives the child something to look forward to. Even if the conversations are brief, consistency matters.
Surprise Notes & Gifts
Mailing small letters, drawings, or care packages can bring excitement and a reminder that the parent is thinking of them. If overseas travel is ahead, write notes beforehand and leave things for them to open once a week. Kids can also send their artwork or letters in return. There are many free messaging apps for overseas communication.
“Together Time” Calendar
For longer separations, a countdown calendar can help children visualize when the family will be reunited. Adding stickers or crossing off days can make the wait feel more manageable. One military member used to make paper chain loops for the kids to remove each day until Daddy would be home, and the shorter the chain, the more excited the kids would get.
At Emrick’s Van & Storage, we know that moving is more than just packing boxes—it’s about creating a smooth transition for you and your family. Small steps, like letting your kids decorate a special box for their room, can turn a stressful process into a meaningful experience. This simple activity keeps them engaged and creates a cherished keepsake filled with memories. As you prepare for your move, trust our team to handle the logistics, so you can focus on making the journey as seamless and positive as possible. Let us help you move forward with confidence and care!
Why Children Struggle When a Parent Is Away
Children thrive on stability, routine, and strong parental bonds. When a parent is physically absent, even temporarily, it can disrupt their sense of security. Some of the common emotional and behavioral reactions include:
- Acting Out – Increased tantrums, defiance, or aggression
- Withdrawal – Becoming quiet, spending more time alone, or seeming distant
- Separation Anxiety – Fearful behavior when saying goodbye, even to the parent still at home
- Changes in Sleep or Eating Habits – Difficulty sleeping, nightmares, or loss of appetite
- Regression – Returning to earlier childhood behaviors, such as thumb-sucking or bedwetting
The child may be unable to articulate why they feel this way, but their emotions are real and must be acknowledged.
Maintain Routines
The parent still at home should keep daily routines as consistent as possible. Predictability can bring comfort, even when a loved one is missing.
Acknowledge Their Feelings
Encouraging children to express their emotions through talking, drawing, or play helps them process their feelings. Let them know that missing a parent is normal and that feeling sad is okay sometimes.
Phrases like:
✔️ “I know you miss Daddy/Mommy, and that’s okay. They miss you too!”
✔️ “Even when they’re not here, they love you so much.”
✔️ “Let’s think of something fun we can do when they return!”
These reassurances can go a long way in making a child feel emotionally safe.
The Power of Connection
Strengthening bonds through creative ways of staying connected helps children feel loved, secure, and supported. Parents may not always realize how deeply their absence affects their child, but being proactive in maintaining communication and emotional closeness can make all the difference.
Parents can ease their children’s silent sadness and help them navigate these transitions with confidence and resilience by providing consistency, reassurance, and tangible reminders of love.
