How to Prepare Kids for a Deployment

Preparing children for the upcoming deployment of a parent can be very difficult. Not only is it hard for the children involved but it is also hard for the parents as well. The parent leaving to be deployed may feel guilty for having to leave and the parent left behind may feel overwhelmed at the idea of having to be both a mom and dad. There are some ways to help both the children and parents plan for a deployment. Here is a look at some ways to help.

A few months before the deployment it is a good idea to have both parents sit down with the child or children and explain what is going to happen. With younger children under the age of 7 it is important to keep it as simple as possible. Just explaining that mommy or daddy is going to be gone for a long time to keep them safe can be sufficient. Both parents should be sure to reassure the child that they will still get to talk to the parent and that the other parent will be home with them. When dealing with children over the age of 7 chances are they will have a better understanding of what will happen. Parents should be sure to let them know it is okay if they are sad, mad or frustrated over the deployment and that they are always there to listen to them if they need to talk. They should also let the children know they will be sad too and it is completely normal to feel this way.

Once the child or children know about the deployment it is important for the parent who is going to be deployed to try to do extra special things with the children. They should make it a point to take them on special outings for some special time alone. Parents should be sure to bring along the camera and get lots of pictures. This will make for great memories for both the parent and children. Parents can help their children make a special photo album with pictures of them and their parent to look at if they start to feel lonely for their parent.

Generally once a deployment is near there will be special goodbye ceremonies. While it may be difficult bringing the children it is important to bring them along and make them feel involved in the process. In addition to giving them the opportunity to say "goodbye" to their parent it also helps them realize how important and special their parent's job is and how proud they should be of their parent.