Having a partner who is away frequently for work can be a challenge. Whether they are in defence force or have a fly-in, fly-out (FIFO) job, read our series of articles to help you and your family.
Remember that it is a lifestyle choice and not all families can cope with the pressures. Try to make sure the decision to take on this lifestyle is shared and make a plan about how long you want to continue with this arrangement.
It is important to discuss what your family goals are and reassess the costs and benefits regularly. You can all work together to stay connected while enjoying the positive benefits of this phase in your family’s life.
The home and away cycle may bring out a range of emotions and can affect each family differently. Families can work together to overcome these challenges and deal with the range of emotions that may arise.
Tips from families
- Take the time to look after each others' emotional and physical well-being.
- Develop a good support network of friends and professional support services, especially if you are isolated from family and existing friends.
- Stick to a consistent family routine when Dad/partner is home or away to give children a sense of security.
- Keep Dad involved in parenting and the household by participating in everyday tasks.
- Create a family plan together for positive communication and dealing with challenges. It’s great to include the children in this if possible.
Tips to keep Dad connected while he is away
- Dad can find toys that represent his workplace, such as trucks, ships, helicopters or computers, so children can role play while he is away.
- Dad can leave hidden notes around the house for children to find.
- Stay in constant communication over the phone or internet to allow opportunities for Dad to reassure children that he loves them and is thinking of them. It also gives children the opportunity to share their news as it happens.
- Make a list of fun family activities you might do when Dad is at home to keep him in your child’s mind.
Mum's 10 tips for self care
- Exercise by taking a walk with the pram or join a walking group
- Relax through yoga, meditation or swimming
- Take time out once a month with girlfriends
- Go online for support and join a parenting forum (like Essential Baby!)
- Keep a journal about how you are feeling
- Enjoy spending time in the garden
- Jump on a trampoline
- Make a list of 6-10 things to do each day and be content if you achieve two of them
- Dance!
- Forgive yourself, it's not easy. You're doing a great job!
Share your tips with us
We would love to hear what strategies work for your family when Dad - or Mum - works away. Comment below and send us an email at parentingwa@communities.wa.gov.au and we will post the most creative ideas on our website! (Parenting WA reserves the right to edit responses for the purposes of clarity)
Read further articles
- Mum & Dad: caring for your children and each other
- Practical advice for parenting with a partner away
- Who looks after Mum when Dad is away?
This article has been supplied by the Department for Communities. Parenting WA - the Parenting Line is a free 24/7 telephone service for information and advice on any parenting matter. (08) 6279 1200 or 1800 654 432.
Links
Join a relevant EB Buddy Group here, from Military Families to the “FIFO” buddy group.
Discuss these articles with EB member here.
