Once you graduate from truck driving school and obtain your CDL, you can choose from local, regional, and over-the-road (OTR) assignments. OTR truckers can earn great pay, but they must be away from home for days or sometimes a couple of weeks at a time. To stay connected to their kids, OTR truckers flex their creative muscles and make good use of technology.
Video Chats
Video chats are an excellent way to stay in touch across long distances. Truckers use Skype, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts to talk to their kids and partners. Try to keep these conversations “light.” That is, if the kids are having problems at school, and the situation isn’t urgent, an in-person conversation is better.
Lunch Notes
Count the number of school days you’ll miss at home. Write out a series of short notes to the kids, and have your partner enclose one in each lunchbox every morning. These could say anything from “I love you,” to “Have a great soccer game today!” If your kids like brainteasers, you could sprinkle in a few riddles into the mix.
Long-Distance Gaming
Did you know you can play computer and video games with your kids no matter how far away they are? Look into long-distance gaming consoles or online computer games that you and your kids would all enjoy. This is a great option for older kids who feel that lunchbox notes are too “babyish.”
Postcards
Technology is great for bringing people together. But for kids, there’s something special about receiving snail mail. Bring a booklet of stamps with you, and look for postcards at truck stops
Memorable Home Time
No matter which tricks you use to stay connected on the road, you should make your home time memorable. Take your kids to a mini golf course, zoo, or aquarium. Devote an entire day to simply being present in their lives.
You can jumpstart your new career by enrolling in the commercial truck driving program at Phoenix Truck Driving School at Ft. Bliss. Give us a call at (877) 206-8344 to get the details on enrollment and find out about upcoming open house events!
