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Children

Tips to Help Children Deal with Deployment

Make sure children know they are loved

Often, young children see themselves as the cause of separation. They may feel their parent is going away because they have been bad, or because their parent doesn't love them anymore. Make sure children know this isn't the case.

Be Truthful

Many children can sense when they are being lied to. Often, what they imagine is worse than reality, and they may worry unnecessarily. It helps to talk openly and honestly about separation.

Share Concerns

Children often have a hard time talking about their feelings. Let children know it's okay to talk about their feelings - even negative feelings by sharing your own.

Discipline Consistently

Don't let separation mean a free rein. But don't threaten your child with ‘wait until your *** gets home!’ It's hard to look forward to the return of someone expected to punish you.

Let them Help

Let children help around the house. Ask children which chores they would like to do. Let children know they are making a valuable contribution.

Maintain Routines

Regular mealtimes and bedtimes can help children feel more secure. Try to keep the same family rules and routines that were used before separation.

Mark Time

Help Children mark the passing of time . Many families find it helpful to mark off the days on a calendar, but 6 months is a long time! Try to find some visual way to let children count the days until their parent comes home – perhaps in blocks of a week or two, leading up to a treat or trip. RAF Community Support have useful pack-ups for children available via the  RAF Community Support pages.

 

 

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