OTR and Children – Some Tips.

For a CDL driver who is away from their children for long periods of time, maintaining a strong family bond can be a challenge. However, there are a few things that a driver can do to help keep in touch with their children and maintain a strong relationship despite the distance.

One of the most important things a CDL driver can do is to make sure they are regularly communicating with their children. This can include phone calls, text messages, emails, and video calls. For example, a driver can schedule regular phone calls with their children during their breaks, or set up a regular video call using a platform like Facetime or Skype.

Another way for a CDL driver to maintain a bond with their children is to send them care packages or letters. This can include things like pictures, small gifts, or even just a simple note letting them know that the driver is thinking about them.

It is also important for the CDL driver to make sure they are aware of the likely stressors on their children and to be understanding of them. For example, children may feel lonely or anxious when their parent is away for long periods of time, and they may struggle to understand why their parent is not home. The CDL driver should make sure they are aware of these feelings and be available to talk to their children about them.

However, it’s also important to be aware that the long periods of time away from home can be stressful for the CDL driver as well. Drivers may miss their family, feel lonely or isolated on the road, and struggle to maintain relationships with their partner and children. They may also feel guilty for not being able to be home for important events or milestones.

In conclusion, maintaining a strong family bond while working as a CDL driver requires regular communication and understanding of the stressors on both the driver and the children. It is important for the driver to make sure they are regularly communicating with their children through various channels such as phone calls, text messages, emails, and video calls, and to be understanding of the likely stressors on the children. At the same time, it’s important for the driver to be aware of their own stressors and to take steps to manage them.