Managing Parenting When You’re Always Traveling for Games, Competitions, or Work Events

👉 Being a parent is already one of the hardest jobs in the world. 

👉 Add to that constant travel for games, competitions, or work events, and the pressure can feel impossible. 

👉 You love your sport and you love your kids — but sometimes, it feels like you’re being pulled in two directions at once.

💥 Here’s how to manage parenting while chasing your dreams, staying connected to your kids, and taking care of yourself along the way.

1. First of All: You’re Not Failing — You’re Doing Something Hard

👉 If you’ve ever thought:

🚩 “I’m a bad parent for being away so much.” 

🚩 “I can’t give 100% to my career and my family — I’m letting everyone down.”

💥 Stop. You’re NOT failing — you’re doing your best in a really tough situation. 

💥 Being a loving parent and a high-level athlete is possible — but you need support and strategies.

2. Why It’s So Hard (And Why You’re Not Alone)

👉 Traveling for sports and work makes parenting hard because:

🚩 You miss important moments — birthdays, school events, daily routines. 

🚩 You worry about being “out of sight, out of mind.” 

🚩 You feel guilty — like you’re choosing work over family. 

🚩 You’re tired — and then have to show up emotionally when you’re home.

💥 So many athlete-parents feel this way — you’re not alone in this.

3. Real Strategies to Stay Connected — Even When You’re Far Away

👉 You may not be able to change the travel, but you can stay connected and involved in creative ways:

✅ A. Plan Daily Check-Ins (Even Short Ones)

👉 A short video call, voice message, or text can make a big difference.

💬 "I love you. I’m thinking of you. Here’s what I did today. What did you do?"

💥 Even if it’s 5 minutes — consistency matters more than length.

✅ B. Leave Notes, Videos, or Little Surprises Before You Leave

👉 Record short videos or leave notes for each day you’ll be away. 

👉 Hide small surprises (like snacks or little toys) they can open daily.

💥 This gives kids something to look forward to — and keeps them connected to you.

✅ C. Share Your Journey With Them (Age-Appropriate)

👉 Tell them about your games, travels, and feelings — help them understand why you’re away.

💬 “I miss you a lot, but I’m working hard in my sport — just like you work hard at school!”

💥 Letting them in on your world helps them feel involved, not left behind.

✅ D. Create Homecoming Rituals

👉 Something special for when you return — even if simple:

• Movie night.

• Special breakfast.

• One-on-one time.

💥 It shows them they matter and gives everyone something to look forward to.

4. Managing Your Own Emotions — Guilt, Sadness, Pressure

👉 You might feel:

🚩 Guilty for being away. 

🚩 Sad to miss moments. 

🚩 Pressured to be perfect when you’re home.

💥 You’re human — and that’s okay.

✅ A. Remind Yourself Why You’re Doing This

💬 “I’m working hard to create a future for my family.” 

💬 “My kids are learning from me what it means to follow a dream and be disciplined.”

✅ B. Let Go of Being "Perfect"

👉 You don’t have to make up for being away by doing everything right.

💥 Being present when you’re home — even imperfectly — matters more.

✅ C. Talk to Other Athlete-Parents

👉 Find others who understand this life — share strategies and support.

💥 You’re not the only one navigating this — community helps.

5. What to Say to Kids Who Are Struggling With You Being Away

👉 When kids are upset about you leaving — acknowledge their feelings, and give them love and security.

💬 “I know it’s hard when I go away — I miss you too. But no matter where I am, I’m always thinking about you and loving you.” 

💬 “Let’s plan what we’ll do when I get back — something just for us.”

💥 Kids need honesty and reassurance — not false promises.

6. If You’re Co-Parenting: How to Make It Easier on Everyone

👉 If there’s another parent or caregiver involved:

✅ A. Share the Schedule Openly

👉 Help them prepare for when you’ll be gone — and when you’ll return.

✅ B. Show Appreciation

👉 Thank them for holding it down while you’re gone — it goes a long way.

💬 “I know it’s a lot when I’m traveling — thank you for everything you do. I couldn’t do this without you.”

✅ C. Stay a Team — Even From a Distance

👉 Coordinate on parenting decisions, discipline, and support — so your kid feels like both parents are there for them.

7. Final Words — You’re Allowed to Chase Your Dreams AND Love Your Kids

💥 You are showing your kids what passion, discipline, and dedication look like. 

💥 They won’t remember every day you were gone — they’ll remember that you loved them and worked for them. 

💥 Parenting is hard for everyone — and even harder in sports — but you’re doing more than you think. 

💥 Give yourself credit — and take care of yourself, too.

8. Take These Reminders With You

🟢 “I can love my family and love my sport — both matter.” 

🟢 “Being away doesn’t mean I’m not present in their lives.” 

🟢 “Short, meaningful moments count — even when I’m not home.” 

🟢 “My kids are learning from my strength and dedication.” 

🟢 “I deserve support, too — I don’t have to do it alone.”