Even though most people feel that time they spend behind the wheel is a waste, I’ve recently discovered that it is quickly becoming one of my favorite parts of my parenting weekend and perhaps some of the most important time I spend with my kiddo.
Just like a lot of divorced dads, I don’t get to see my kiddo as much as I would like. I would love for him to take up residence at my place, but sometimes extenuating circumstances prevent that from happening. Because of these circumstances, dads have to make the most out of the time they do get to spend with their kiddos, and I am no different.
Almost two years ago, I received a promotion which included a permanent change of station (PCS) move. Instead of the short, five minute drive in which I was accustomed, I now drive just under 130 miles to where I meet my kiddo’s mom for the child custody exchange. Because of the distance, the kiddo would normally pass out on the trip to and from my place. I never thought about the time that I was wasting when the kiddo would sleep on the trip, so I never took advantage of the time.
Recently I haven’t given the kiddo an opportunity to crash out on me due to his slumping grades at school. That’s when I had my epiphany, if I didn’t allow the kiddo to sleep, I could spend some quality one-on-one time with him during our drive time. A time without distractions from television, internet, and video games. Just some good quality parenting time and an awesome chance to build a strong father/son relationship, one mile at a time.
My goal with four of my eight hour commute is to continue to foster the relationship with the kiddo. I want him to be able to use this time to talk about anything and everything. I want him to feel comfortable in opening up when it’s just the two of us. I want to make sure that he understands that even though I’m his dad, I can still be a good friend and confidant.
Windshield time should also make for some interesting posts. The kiddo is exceptionally witty and has a keen sense of humor which have led to some entertaining discussions. He is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to sport statistics. He dishes out his opinion and can hold a respectable conversation for his age. I have a feeling that his could be some very entertaining writing.
Within the next few weeks, be on the lookout for the first edition of Windshield Time. A dad’s chance to build strong bonds with his child, two uninterrupted hours at a time.
Take care,
Stan