Being a military parent can be tough. Parenting for Service Members and Veterans is a free and confidential online course designed by and for service members and veterans to equip fellow military parents with resources to reconnect with their children and bring families closer together.
The course features real military families and their personal experiences and offers approaches to use with young people of all ages. Here are 10 tips from the course that military families should know:
1. Invite your child’s questions. You may think that if your kids are not asking questions, they are OK. However, pay attention to indirect messages — if you never mention your deployment, your children may follow your lead and not ask. Being open about your service may make your kids more comfortable.
2. Be prepared for tough questions. Remember your child’s questions are their way of trying to make sense of your absence and return. If your child seems angry, be patient and invite him/her to tell you about the hardest parts of your absence. Questions are often a child’s way of wanting to be reassured that they are safe.
3. Take care of yourself. Improved mental and physical health can make you a better parent. Identify simple things you can do throughout your day to relax or decrease your stress. You are not only recharging your own batteries, but also setting an example for your child to care of him/herself.
