Helping Children Through a Deployment

Helping Children Through a Military Deployment

Military deployments can be a challenging time for both the service member and their family, especially for children. The absence of a parent can create feelings of anxiety, confusion, and even sadness in young minds. As a caring adult, there are several ways to support and help children navigate through this difficult period. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Open and Honest Communication: Create an environment where children feel comfortable discussing their emotions and concerns. Encourage them to express their feelings openly, assuring them that their emotions are valid and understandable. Be honest about what to expect during the deployment and answer any questions they may have.
2. Staying Connected: Maintain regular communication between the child and the deployed parent. Encourage letter writing, phone calls, video chats, and any other available means to bridge the distance. These interactions offer reassurance, comfort, and a sense of connection, reinforcing the child's bond with their parent.
3. Establish Routines: Consistency and structure are crucial for children during a deployment. Establishing daily routines can help them feel more secure and provide a sense of stability. Stick to regular meal times, bedtimes, and other familiar rituals that provide comfort and a sense of normalcy.
4. Provide Age-Appropriate Information: Tailor the level of detail about the deployment based on the child's age and maturity. Younger children may require simpler explanations, while older ones might benefit from more in-depth discussions about the military's purpose and their parent's role. However, it's essential to ensure that the information shared does not burden or overwhelm them.
5. Enlist Supportive Networks: Encourage children to stay connected with friends, teachers, and community organizations. These networks can provide additional emotional support and outlets for the child to express their emotions. Ensure that important people within the child's life, such as school counselors and teachers, are aware of the deployment to help provide additional guidance and understanding.
6. Encourage Emotional Expression: Help children find healthy ways to express their emotions. This may include encouraging them to keep a journal, engaging in art or music activities, or participating in support groups for military children. Physical activities and sports can also serve as excellent outlets for pent-up emotions.
7. Create Special Traditions: Establishing new traditions or activities during the deployment can help create positive memories and reinforce the bond between the child and the deployed parent. These can include things like reading bedtime stories over video calls, celebrating special occasions together virtually, or even creating a countdown calendar marking the days until reunion.
8. Seek Professional Support if Needed: If a child's emotions become overwhelming or significantly impact their daily life, it might be helpful to seek professional support. Mental health professionals, particularly those experienced in working with military families, can provide valuable guidance and assistance in helping children navigate their emotions during this challenging period.
Remember, helping children through a military deployment requires patience, understanding, and consistent support. By implementing these strategies, we can provide the necessary tools for children to cope with their emotions and maintain a strong sense of connection with their deployed parent.