That’s
why they deserve as much care and support as Service Members do. Military children
face unique challenges from other children; they require special attention to help
them adjust to the absence of a deployed family member, endure frequent relocations,
or cope with other issues related to having a loved one in the National Guard. With
support, you can help your child weather these changes and feel happy, supported,
and loved.
Why Supporting Military Kids matters:
National Guard children who don’t have the benefit of a military installation community
are especially vulnerable to stressors related to a parent or loved one’s military
service. They may be at higher risk of developing anxiety, having mood swings, and
struggling to adapt to change. Understanding how these stressors affect children
can help parents prevent future problems and know what to do when their child is
showing signs of distress.
Signs of distress in children:
- Increased sadness, crying
- Eating difficulties
- Worry for the caregivers at home and worry for the deployed loved one’s safety
- Acting out, regressive behavior (bed wetting, etc.)
- Depression, dissociation
- Isolation
- Refusal to sleep alone
And In teenagers:
- Risky behavior
- Substance abuse
- Suicidal thoughts
How to help a military child:
- Communicate often. Children and teens may not realize their feelings about having
a loved one in the military until you ask. Keep the lines of communication open,
and create a safe space for them to speak their mind by validating their feelings
and being honest. Be sure to listen for warning signs of depression and anxiety.
- Keep them connected. When a deployed parent/loved one is away, try to engage the
child in activities that will keep them emotionally aware and connected to their
loved one. Talk about them often, write letters, create art projects, and communicate
online and over the phone whenever possible.
- Make it a team effort. Engaging extended family members, friends, your child’s teachers
and members of the community is a great way to create a sense of continuity and
normalcy when changes abound or a child needs help. Encourage your child’s involvement
in sports, clubs, or other group activities, including
Yellow Ribbon Reintegration Program events where child
and youth programs are available. Your State/Territory
Director of Psychological Health is also there to provide support
and assistance for you and your family 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Create healthy routines. Routines are proven to instill a sense of security and
normalcy in children. Morning rituals and bedtime rituals provide a positive introduction
and ending to every day, and help the sense of stability last throughout the day
and through the night. Be sure to alert the deployed parent or loved one of the
routines, so they can pick it up upon their return.
- Prepare children for changes in advance. If a major change is on the horizon, begin
to slowly integrate elements of the change over time beforehand. This way, a child
will have a foundation ready in advance, and may feel less jarred when a parent
returns, your household relocatess, or another adjustment occurs.
Remember: Help is available. Call your Director of Psychological Health for
more tips, counseling, and support.