What with all of the hustle and bustle and preparation for BlogHer Business, I thought I’d ease my own disappointment about not being able to go (and about missing all of those great speakers and not being able to meet and network with so many fantastic bloggers — sob) by offering up a little something to help those of you who are going feel a little better about the trip.

You already understand why it’s really good to take advantage of network opportunities like this. Your kids, though? They don’t necessarily get it. And, if they’re little, the biggest thing they’ll register is that you’re going somewhere — gasp! — without them.

1.) Leave them something to listen to while you’re gone. Make your own book-on-tape of you reading your child’s favorite story. Don’t forget to include a reminder to turn the page! (”Next page, Sweetie!” is better than a generic “beep,” though any funny noise will do.) If you sometimes sing your tot to sleep, tape that, too.

2.) Bring along one of their stuffed toys, and take pictures of it in your hotel room. If you’re feeling especially brave, take the toy out on the town. Email the photos home for your kids to look at, with a little note written from the toy’s point of view (or look at them together when you return).

3.) Send postcards. It doesn’t matter whether you’ll be away for a day or for a week, your child will be thrilled to receive something in the mail, even if it arrives after you get back. No time to buy some? Bring a card or two with you and mail them during the trip — the picture on the front matters way less than whatever little note you jot on the back.

There are as many coping strategies for things like this as there are kids, so please, share yours in the comments!