A guide to leaving your child overnight

Whether you will be away overnight or for a multiple-day vacation, leaving your child can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. Many parents start out looking forward to the time away but become increasingly anxious as it creeps closer.

“All of these emotions surrounding leaving your child are totally normal,” assures Dr. Jeanne Lovett, a pediatrician at Advocate Children’s Hospital. “As parents, we often become used to doing everything for our young children and being present every day that the thought of someone else handling it all might make us nervous. But a little time away can actually be healthy for both you and your child.”

She recommends the following tips to help ease your anxiety and make your time away more enjoyable and successful for everyone involved:

Familiarity is key

Make sure your child is very comfortable and familiar with the caregiver. Leading up to your departure, have the caregiver over to spend 1:1 time with your child to help make your time away even smoother.

Reassure your child

Prepare your child for your absence by letting them know they will be safe and taken care of while you’re gone. Reassure them that you’ll be in contact with the caregiver and that you will be coming back. Talk about all the fun your child will have with the caregiver. Consider leaving them a special note or object they can hold when they’re missing you.

Provide important contacts

Leave your child’s caregiver with any important contact numbers, including the pediatrician’s office and Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). If your child has allergies or asthma, make sure their caregiver has any necessary information, including an asthma action plan, medications they may need and clear directions for medication administration.

Let them know if there will be times you won’t be reachable in the event they need to contact you. If there’s a high likelihood that your child will need to see their doctor for a routine visit during your absence, make sure their pediatrician’s office has the caregiver listed as an acceptable guardian.

Stick to routine

Walk the caregiver through your child’s routine and leave written instructions they can reference. Children thrive on routine, and sticking to their typical schedule will help give them a sense of normalcy while you’re away. This is especially true for bedtime routines if you are away from your child overnight.

Make items easy to find

Set out extra diapers, wipes, clothing and pajamas in an easy to find spot for caregivers so they aren’t having to search through drawers and cabinets.

Avoid video calls

Understand that video calls may actually make things harder for both of you. Sometimes, seeing a parent through the phone might be upsetting to your child because they can’t physically access you, leading to tears. You know your child best, but consider asking your child’s caregiver for a couple of photos or videos of your child instead.

Overall, it’s OK to give yourself permission to enjoy time away, even if you are missing your child. Following these tips will help ensure your child is in capable hands.

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