Just the thought of leaving your children at home and not seeing them grow is already very fearful. However, our Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW) chooses to be alone in a foreign land so they can provide a good life for their family back in the Philippines.
Going abroad to work means that you’ll miss a lot of things especially those that involves your children. You won’t be with them on their birthday, Christmas day, graduation day, and a lot more. These days may appear less important to others but to our OFWs, these are the loneliest days simply because they cannot be with their loved ones.
Children are the mostly affected ones when parents go to seek employment abroad. Though there are already social media platforms to sustain regular communication, it is still best to know some important parenting tips for OFWs.
- Communicate
As much as possible, spare time for your children ones in a while. No matter how hectic your schedule, make time for quick voice calls or video chats. Also, make sure they understand your reason for leaving. Make them understand and cooperate so you can both fulfill your dreams for all your sacrifices to be all worth it.
Aside from your children, try to communicate with their guardian or their spouse also, regarding the attitude of your children. Since they know more about them, they are the perfect people to talk to so you can get to know more about your children despite the huge distance.
- Listen
Parents should also listen to their children. It is not right to force your children to listen to you at all time. You must do it vice-versa. Listen to the thoughts of your children and answer their questions politely and truthfully. It is especially important to remove any doubts that they have in mind.
- Stay Involved
Though difficult, it is not entirely impossible to get involved in your child’s activities despite the distance. You can ask their guardian or your spouse about the events that they are up to and using social media, you can interact with them accordingly.
- Good Parenting As Your Main Goal
Always remember that your children do not need your money, ONLY. They also need your time and affection despite the distance. Good thing there are now social media to go to. You can easily communicate and even see them without hassle.
When you go on vacation, as much as possible, spend quality time with your kids. As they say, quality surpasses quantity.
