Deployment is a stressful time for all family members, especially children. Communicating with children during this time of uncertainty can help ease their stress. Use the checklist below as a guide for talking with children about deployment.
As a Parent, I:
___ Help my children count down the days.
___ Tell my children what I can about the deployed parent's mission.
___ Allow my children to ask questions and give open and honest answers in words they can understand.
___ Show patience when my children ask the same questions and I repeat the same answers.
___ Encourage my children to share feelings through words, play, drawings, etc.
___ Listen sensitively to my children's concerns.
___ Am aware of my emotional reactions around my children and do not rely on them for support.
___ Remind my children and myself that separation can be a time for everyone to grow.
___ Help my children communicate with the deployed parent.
___ Help my children send artwork, homemade cookies, cards, and small gifts to the deployed parent.
___ Make a weekly family newspaper or audio tape to send to the deployed parent.
___ Send e-mails regularly and include digital pictures when possible.
___ Keep the deployed parent in family conversations and involved in all family decisions.
___ Maintain communication with my children's teachers, childcare providers, and others about the deployment.
___ Watch for signs of stress in my children (nightmares; excessive worry; anxiety about being away from home; anxiety about going to school or other activities; stomach aches, headaches, and other complaints; withdrawal; lack of interest; acting out; and sudden changes in eating or sleeping habits).
___ Seek professional help, if needed.
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