Deployment can be a challenging time for military families, especially children. It is important for parents to provide their children with the necessary support and resources to help them cope with the emotions and changes that come with deployment. Fortunately, there are a variety of resources available to military families, including online resources, support groups, counseling services, and educational support. By utilizing these resources, parents can ensure that their children have the help they need to navigate through the difficulties of deployment and thrive during this challenging time. Supporting children through deployment is crucial for the well-being of military families and their children.
Supporting Children Through Deployment: Resources for Military Families
As a military family, deployments are a part of life. Deployment can be a difficult and stressful time for everyone involved, including children. It is important for parents to provide their children with the support and resources they need to navigate through the challenging emotions and changes that come with deployment.
Fortunately, there are many resources available to military families to help support children during deployment. From online resources to support groups, there are ways for parents to ensure their children have the help they need during this time.
Online Resources
There are a variety of online resources available to military families that can help support children during deployment. Websites such as Military Kids Connect offer resources and information specifically tailored to the needs of military children. This site provides age-appropriate activities, videos, and articles to help children understand and cope with the emotions that come with deployment.
Additionally, resources such as Sesame Street for Military Families offer videos, games, and printable activities designed to help children understand and process the deployment of a parent. These resources can help children feel connected and supported during this challenging time.
Support Groups
Support groups can be an invaluable resource for military families during deployment. Connecting with other military families who are going through similar experiences can provide children with the support and understanding they need. Many military installations offer support groups specifically for children of deployed parents.
Additionally, there are online support groups available for military families, such as Military Family Connect. These groups provide a safe space for children and parents to share their experiences and receive support from others who understand what they are going through.
Counseling Services
Counseling services can also be helpful for children of deployed parents. Military children may experience a range of emotions during deployment, including anxiety, sadness, and confusion. Counseling services can provide children with a safe space to talk about their feelings and learn coping strategies to help them navigate through this difficult time.
Many military installations offer counseling services for military families, including play therapy and family therapy. Additionally, there are online counseling services available for military families, such as Military OneSource, which provides confidential counseling services for children and parents.
Educational Support
Children of deployed parents may face challenges in school due to the stress and emotions that come with deployment. It is important for parents to communicate with their child’s school about the deployment and any support that may be needed.
Many schools have programs in place to support military children during deployment, such as deployment support groups or counseling services. Additionally, organizations such as the Military Child Education Coalition offer resources and support to help military children succeed academically during deployment.
In conclusion, supporting children through deployment is essential for military families. By utilizing resources such as online resources, support groups, counseling services, and educational support, parents can help their children navigate through the challenges that come with deployment. With the right support in place, military children can thrive during deployment and beyond.