Involve your children

• Let your children help you prepare for the deployment (roll socks in balls, count tee shirts, find a special place for their pictures).
• If possible, allow your children to "decorate" a deployment box and fill it with special treasures.
• Give one another "comfort items" (a stuffed animal, a special rock or other small item) to hold on to during the separation.
• Take a picture of yourself with each child for him or her to keep.
• Spend individual time with each child before you leave.
• Include children in family good-byes, if possible.
• Say goodbye instead of slipping away.
• Keep goodbyes brief.

When both parents or single parents are going away:

• Communicate with the caregiver about routines, rules, interests, comfort items, and special activities to help in the transition.
• Make a smooth transition from parent to caregiver, being as consistent as possible.
• Help the caregiver plan for special occasions, such as birthdays, if you are going to be away during that time.

Family Rituals

Rituals are activities that create a sense of family and feeling of bonding among family members. For example, family rituals or routines can provide a feeling of togetherness (We belong together), consistency (We pick blueberries every July), identity (We're a fishing family), and a way to teach values (We adopt a family in need during the holiday season). When children take an active part in creating and practicing rituals, they feel connected and a part of something larger in their lives. In times of uncertainty and change, rituals can be the glue that holds a family together.

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