Because professional truck drivers are responsible for safely completing long hauls and supplying Americans with essential goods and supplies on time, they must spend a significant amount of time on the road. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) permits truck drivers to work up to 60 hours a week, meaning they often spend days to weeks at a time in their vehicles.
For truck drivers with children, these long hours can make it difficult to manage their work responsibilities while maintaining strong familial bonds. Spending days to weeks away from their children means it’s even more important to strengthen communication and create a plan that fits into a truck driver’s schedule.
In this article, learn how truck drivers can create a long-distance parenting plan to stay connected with their families throughout even the longest hauls.
What is a Long-Distance Parenting Plan for Truck Drivers?
A long-distance parenting plan is a schedule that outlines how the truck driver parent will balance their work schedule and obligations to their children. These plans are crucial to the mental and emotional well-being of both the parent and children, as they facilitate time and communication that fosters overall healthy relationships between them.
What to Include in a Long-Distance Parenting Plan
When creating a parenting plan, truck drivers must consider the amount of time they will be away from home, the distances they will be driving, the specific needs of their children, and more. While each family is different, here are some example considerations for long-distance parenting plans.
Communicate Regularly
In today’s modern era of technology, there are many different ways for truckers to stay in communication with their families while on the road, including regular messaging during driving breaks, video calls, and social media platforms.
Schedule Visits When Possible
With the schedules of both the parents and children in mind, build a consistent schedule for visits and quality time. Weekends, holidays, and breaks from school are often convenient times to schedule these visits.
Assign Financial Responsibilities
As parents and guardians likely know, childcare expenses can add up quickly. That’s why it’s important to delegate regular costs for the children as well as transportation fees associated with scheduled visits.
How to Stay Connected as a Truck Driver Parent
Outside of the expectations set by the long-distance parenting plan, there are many other ways for truck drivers to encourage healthy and meaningful communication with their families while on the job.
1. Make the Most of Visiting Time
During visiting time, it’s important for truck driver parents to always prioritize quality time with their loved ones. No matter what quality time looks like to each family, whether it’s an exciting activity or a cozy night in, these moments create lasting memories and strengthen familial bonds.
2. Send Letters and Small Gifts
One of the most unique aspects of a truck driving career is the opportunity to visit new places. As a reminder that you’re thinking of them during your travels, consider sending your children postcards or souvenirs from different cities.
3. Keep Reminders of Home
Although tool boxes for trucks are primarily designed to store vital tools and equipment, they can also become a secure storage area for personal belongings that allow drivers to be connected to home. Photos, trinkets, a video-calling tablet, or surprise gifts for the children can all find a clean place to be stored within the truck toolboxes.
Stay Strong in the Home & On the Road
Though the responsibilities of being a professional truck driver involve spending long periods away from home, your familial bonds do not have to suffer. Created with consistent communication and emotional health in mind, a long-distance parenting plan can help you keep your family relationships strong and your children happy.
