Petawawa Military Family Resource Centre
Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/711198
• Write each child individual letters. In the minds of children, there is no substitute for a letter addressed specifically to them. • Use distinctive stationary, stickers, stamps, etc. to appeal to varying age groups. • For children too young to read, send colorful postcards or pictures you've drawn. • MP3 files can be used to send children messages or even read stories to them. • Ask questions in letters to assist them in knowing what to write to you about. • Show appreciation for the correspondence they send you and refer back to things they have said in previous letters to indicate your interest. • Remember the importance of the amount and frequency of expression of affection. DEPLOYMENT TIPS FOR THE PARENT STAYING BEHIND PRE-DEPLOYMENT • Support Partner and the unit's mission. Adopting a supportive attitude about deployment can assist children in doing likewise. • Assume role of disciplinarian before deployment to allow children time to adjust. • Discuss household chores and let children choose (as much as possible) the chores they would rather do (both parents need to agree that the division of chores is reasonable). • Do not overburden children with responsibility. • Turn on your sensors and be tuned in to children's needs and worries about deployment. • Be honest concerning your feelings and encourage children to express their own concerns and feelings. • The entire family can work together to prepare a small package filled with family photographs, movies, writing paper, paperback books, cookies, candy and any of the deploying parent's favorite things to be opened after deployment. DURING DEPLOYMENT • Reassure children of parental love, support and consistency. • Keep the same routine and rules during deployment as were in effect before deployment. Consistency is very important in helping children to maintain a sense of security. • Give children a method of measuring the passage of time. Some ideas: crossing days off a calendar, paper chains, jelly beans in a jar, etc.