The process of moving with the military has always been a significant undertaking, involving meticulous planning and coordination to ensure a smooth transition by the service member and their family. The Department of Defense (DoD) is introducing HomeSafe Alliance, the new Global Households Goods contractor, this year. The new contractor reports it is aimed at enhancing efficiency and service quality. These updates promise to make military relocations more manageable and less stressful for service members and their families.

HomeSafe Alliance: Key Updates

The DoD’s new program enhancements, announced in a recent update, are set to transform the military moving experience. HomeSafe Alliance, the contractor managing household goods shipments for the military, is central to these improvements. Here are some of the key updates:

1. Enhanced Customer Service: HomeSafe Alliance is implementing an easily accessible customer service approach, which includes 24/7 support and a user-friendly online portal. This aims to provide military families with timely communication and real-time tracking of their shipments, ensuring they are always informed about the status of their belongings.
2. Improved Technology Integration: The updated program leverages advanced technology to enhance the efficiency of the moving process. This includes the use of easy to read electronic inventories with photos of customer’s belongings allowing for verification of pre-move and post-move condition of items. This, in theory, will make the claims process post-move easier.
3. Increased Accountability: The new program emphasizes accountability and transparency in the moving process. HomeSafe Alliance is required to adhere to stricter performance standards, and there are enhanced mechanisms for addressing and resolving issues that may arise during the move. This focus on accountability is intended to ensure that military families receive the high-quality service they deserve.
4. Support Services: HomeSafe Alliance’s services will include pre-move consultations and post-move assistance. This approach aims to address the various needs of military families before, during, and after their move, making the entire process more seamless and less disruptive.

Tips for Organizing Before a Move

Effective organization can significantly ease the moving process. Here are some general tips to help you prepare before your next move:

1. Create a Moving Checklist: Use comprehensive checklist of tasks to complete before, during, and after the move. This should include everything from notifying utility companies and updating your address to packing and organizing important documents. A well-structured checklist will help keep you on track and ensure that nothing is overlooked.
2. Sort and Declutter: Go through your belongings and sort them into categories: keep, donate, or discard. Decluttering reduces the volume of items you need to move and makes unpacking easier. Consider donating items you no longer need to local charities or put them up on your local Buy Nothing Group.
3. Label Boxes Clearly: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much more efficient and help movers place boxes in the appropriate rooms, saving you time and effort. There are QR stickers you can use to digitally manage what is in each box, or simply use color coded stickers for each room and label what is in each box.
4. Pack a Moving Essentials Kit: Prepare a moving essentials kit with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home. This might include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Having these essentials readily accessible can help you settle in more quickly.
5. Notify Important Parties: Time to prepare for the lengthy task of informing banks, insurance providers, healthcare providers, subscription providers, friends and family of your change of address. Don’t forget to pause anything that is on auto-ship!
6. Take Inventory of Valuables: Make a detailed inventory of valuable items, including electronics, jewelry, and important documents. Consider taking photos or videos of these items for insurance purposes and to help you keep track of them during the move.
7. Coordinate with HomeSafe Alliance: Engage with HomeSafe Alliance early in the process to understand their updated services and requirements. They can provide valuable guidance and ensure that your move aligns with the new program’s standards.

The recent updates to the household goods shipment program, led by HomeSafe Alliance, mark a significant change in the military moving experience. By incorporating advanced technology, enhancing customer service, and expanding support services, the DoD aims to make relocations more efficient and less stressful for military families. Time will tell what tangible impact these changes have for military families. Until then, it is business as usual for the service member and their families to organize as much as you can ahead of time and keep a meticulous record of all communication between the Transportation Service Provider, local DMO/TMO and any other involved parties.

As said in Hunger Games, May the odds be ever in your favor.

Grandparents hold a special place in the hearts of their grandchildren, offering wisdom, love, and a sense of family history that transcends generations. For military families, maintaining that connection can be challenging due to frequent relocations and deployments. However, with the right tools and strategies, staying connected with grandparents, no matter where the military sends you, is entirely possible. This Grandparents Day, let’s explore how to bridge the distance, foster meaningful relationships, and learn about family roots, even from afar.

1. Embrace Technology for Regular Communication

In today’s digital age, technology offers easy ways to stay connected. Video calls, messaging applications, and social media platforms can help maintain regular contact with grandparents. Here are some tech-based methods to consider:

• Video Calls: Platforms like Zoom, Skype, and FaceTime allow for face-to-face conversations, making the distance feel shorter. Schedule regular video calls so grandparents can see their grandchildren and share in their daily lives.
• Messaging Apps: Use apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger for quick updates and sharing photos. These platforms also support voice messages, which can add a personal touch.
• Social Media: Create private family groups on Facebook or other social media platforms to share updates, photos, and milestones. This keeps everyone in the loop and allows grandparents to feel involved in their grandchildren’s lives.

2. Share Creative and Personal Updates

Beyond standard updates, consider more creative ways to share your family’s experiences:

• Personalized Videos: Record short videos of your family’s activities and milestones and send them to grandparents. This can include anything from a simple “hello” message to a video of a special event or holiday celebration.
• Digital Scrapbooks: Create digital scrapbooks or photo albums that grandparents can access online. Include captions and stories to give context to the photos, making them more meaningful.
• Storytelling: Share stories and anecdotes from daily life, whether through written letters, emails, or voice memos. This helps grandparents feel connected to their grandchildren’s experiences.

3. Send Thoughtful Care Packages

A tangible reminder of your love can be incredibly meaningful. Sending care packages to grandparents can include:

• Personalized Gifts: Include items that reflect your family’s current location or experiences, such as local crafts, specialty foods, or handmade items from your children.
• Family Photos: Print and send recent family photos or create a photo calendar with special dates and events highlighted.
• Homemade Treats: If possible, send homemade treats or baked goods. These personal touches can make grandparents feel cherished.

4. Engage in Shared Activities

Even from a distance, you can engage in shared activities that strengthen bonds:

• Book Clubs: Start a family book club where everyone reads the same book and discusses it during video calls. Choose books that cater to various ages and interests.
• Virtual Games: Play online games or puzzles together. Many games and apps allow for multiplayer options, making it possible to have fun as a group despite the distance.
• Joint Projects: Work on a project together, such as a family tree or a collaborative art project. Share progress and updates through photos and video calls.

5. Learn and Preserve Family Stories

Understanding and preserving family history is a valuable way to connect with grandparents. Here’s how to explore and document family roots:

• Interviews: Schedule regular video or phone interviews with grandparents to record their stories, memories, and experiences. Use these recordings to create a family history archive that can be shared with future generations.
• Family History Projects: Involve your children in creating a family tree or genealogy project. Include stories, photos, and important dates to build a comprehensive picture of your family’s history.
• Memory Books: Create memory books or journals that grandparents can contribute to, documenting their life experiences, traditions, and family anecdotes.

6. Celebrate Special Occasions Together

Even when you can’t be physically present, celebrate special occasions with your grandparents:

• Virtual Celebrations: Plan virtual parties for birthdays, holidays, or anniversaries. Coordinate with other family members to make the event festive and interactive.
• Shared Experiences: Send gifts or plan surprises for special occasions, such as a subscription to a favorite magazine or a gift card to a favorite store.

7. Maintain Consistent Communication

Consistency is key to maintaining any relationship, especially when separated by distance. Establish regular communication routines, whether through scheduled video calls, weekly emails, or monthly care packages. Keeping in touch regularly helps sustain the connection and shows that you value and prioritize the relationship.

Maintaining a strong bond with grandparents despite the challenges of military life requires creativity, commitment, and effort. You can bridge the distance and foster meaningful connections by leveraging technology, sharing personal updates, sending thoughtful gifts, engaging in shared activities, preserving family stories, and celebrating special occasions. This Grandparents Day, take the opportunity to reconnect, share your experiences, and celebrate the rich tapestry of family history that binds you together.

For military families stationed overseas, or outside the continental United States (OCONUS), shopping off base has become a common practice. While military exchanges and commissaries offer a range of goods and services designed to meet the needs of service members and their families, there are several compelling reasons why many choose to shop on the local economy instead. These reasons include cost considerations, a wider variety of products, convenience, cultural experiences, and the opportunity to explore different options and brands.

Cost Considerations

One of the primary reasons military families shop off base is the potential for cost savings. While commissaries and exchanges offer tax-free shopping, the prices of goods on the local economy can sometimes be more competitive, especially for fresh produce, dairy products, and local specialties. In many countries, markets and local stores offer high-quality goods at lower prices due to reduced transportation costs and local production.

Moreover, exchange rates can sometimes work in favor of the dollar, making off-base shopping more economical. Military families often become adept at comparing prices and taking advantage of favorable exchange rates to stretch their budgets further. The $9 head of garlic at the on base commissary may only $2 after the exchange rate out in town – that significant savings.

Wider Variety of Products

Another significant factor driving military families to shop off base is the wider variety of products available. While commissaries and exchanges strive to stock a broad range of goods, they are often limited by space and the need to cater to a wide audience. In contrast, local stores offer an array of items that reflect the preferences and tastes of the host country, providing a much richer shopping experience.

From unique local foods and beverages to traditional crafts and household items, shopping off base allows military families to access products that are not typically available in military facilities. This variety is especially important for those looking to immerse themselves in the local culture and cuisine, as it offers a way to discover and enjoy new tastes and experiences.

Convenience for Off-Base Residents

For military families living off base, shopping on the local economy is often more convenient. Traveling to and from the base can be time-consuming and costly, especially in countries with heavy traffic or limited public transportation options. Local stores are often closer to off-base housing areas, making it easier for families to run errands and complete their shopping without the need for long commutes.

Additionally, local stores often have longer operating hours compared to commissaries and exchanges, which can be particularly beneficial for families with busy schedules. The convenience of having nearby grocery stores, markets, and shopping centers allows families to manage their time more efficiently and reduces the stress associated with longer trips to the base.

Cultural Experiences

Shopping off base provides military families with a unique opportunity to engage with the local culture and community. Exploring local markets, shops, and restaurants allows families to interact with residents, practice language skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the host country’s traditions and customs. This cultural immersion can be a valuable part of the overall experience of living overseas, enriching the lives of both adults and children.

By shopping on the economy, military families can discover new foods, learn about local ingredients and cooking techniques, and enjoy traditional dishes that they might not encounter otherwise. This culinary exploration not only broadens their palates but also fosters a greater appreciation for the diverse cultures and cuisines of the world.

Exploring Different Options and Brands

Lastly, shopping off base gives military families the chance to try different options and brands that are not available in military facilities. Each country has its own unique products and brands that reflect local tastes and preferences. By shopping locally, families can experiment with new items, from snacks and beverages to personal care products and household goods.

Japan has a wide array of drinks, Germany has options galore of bakes goods and cookies, and Italy offers unprecedented pasta and chocolate options. Living overseas is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

This exposure to different brands and products can be exciting and educational, offering a break from the familiar and providing new favorites that may become cherished memories of their time overseas. Additionally, discovering new products can lead to healthier and more varied diets, as families incorporate local foods and ingredients into their meals.

Shopping off base OCONUS offers military families numerous benefits, from cost savings and convenience to cultural enrichment and access to a wider variety of products. While commissaries and exchanges provide valuable services, the local economy presents opportunities for unique experiences and practical advantages that enhance the overseas living experience. By embracing the local culture and exploring the diverse offerings of their host countries, military families can make the most of their time abroad, creating lasting memories and building connections that transcend borders.

In response to rising living costs and economic pressures, the Department of Defense (DoD) is introducing an Economic Hardship Bonus for eligible service members. This new initiative aims to provide financial relief to troops facing economic difficulties due to increased costs of living. Despite some initial expectations, the rollout of this bonus may be more modest than anticipated.

Rising Costs

Over the past several years, service members have experienced significant increases in various living costs, which have strained their budgets and contributed to financial stress. Here’s a look at some key areas where costs have escalated:

1. Housing Costs: One of the most substantial changes has been in housing costs. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the median home price in the U.S. increased by approximately 30% from 2021 to 2024. Rent prices have also surged, with many urban areas experiencing rises of 15-20% in rental rates, as reported by Apartment List. Despite annual changes in the Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH), the financial updates do not often meet the actual cost of housing in many areas like San Diego, Washington D.C., and Tampa, meaning service members are spending hundreds out of pocket just for housing before other related housing costs like water, electric and internet.
2. Food Prices: Food costs have also seen a notable increase. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that food prices have risen by about 18% over the past three years. This increase has been driven by supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures affecting everything from groceries to dining out.
3. Healthcare Costs: Healthcare expenses have risen significantly, with premiums and out-of-pocket costs for medical services climbing by over 10% annually, according to the Kaiser Family Foundation. These increases impact both the affordability and accessibility of necessary medical care. While service members are seen on base by military providers, this does not include emergency care where military bases, like any of the 50+ Air Force bases across the U.S. that do not provide emergency services.
4. Utilities and Transportation: Utility bills and transportation costs have also risen. Gasoline prices have fluctuated but generally increased by 12% over the past three years, as indicated by the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Utility costs, including electricity and heating, have seen similar upward trends, placing additional financial burdens on households.

Introducing the Economic Hardship Bonus

The DoD is rolling out the Economic Hardship Bonus in response to these financial pressures. While the bonus aims to alleviate some of the financial strain on service members, recent reports indicate that the amounts may be smaller than initially expected. While the NDAA included budgeting for these bonuses, they have not rolled out as the DoD determined how best to utilize these funds. The bonus will vary based on individual circumstances and rank but is designed to provide targeted assistance where needed.

Key Features of the Economic Hardship Bonus

• Eligibility: The bonus is available to service members who demonstrate financial hardship due to increased living costs. Eligibility criteria include income levels and specific financial challenges, with detailed guidelines provided by the DoD. As of this writing, the hardship bonus will apply to those E3 and below.
• Amount and Distribution: While the exact bonus amounts are still being finalized, the bonus is anticipated to be distributed in monthly installments. This approach aims to provide ongoing support rather than a one-time payment, helping service members manage their expenses over time.
• Application Process: Service members must apply for the bonus through their respective military branches. The application process will involve submitting documentation of financial hardship and meeting eligibility requirements. Detailed instructions and application forms will be available through official military channels.

How the Hardship Bonus Will Help

The Economic Hardship Bonus is designed to address the financial challenges faced by service members due to rising costs. Here’s how it will provide relief:

1. Mitigating Financial Strain: By offering direct financial support, the bonus helps offset increased costs for housing, food, healthcare, and other essentials. This relief can ease the burden on service members and their families, allowing them to manage their budgets better.
2. Supporting Retention and Morale: Financial stress can impact morale and job performance. The bonus aims to reduce this stress, contributing to higher retention rates and overall well-being among service members.
3. Enhancing Quality of Life: With additional financial resources, service members can improve their quality of life, access necessary healthcare, and maintain a stable living environment. This support is crucial for maintaining the military’s readiness and effectiveness.

The introduction of the Economic Hardship Bonus reflects the DoD’s recognition of the financial pressures service members face in today’s challenging economic environment. While the bonus may not be as substantial as initially hoped or provide coverage to as many individuals as originally planned, it represents a meaningful step toward addressing the rising living costs. By providing targeted financial assistance, the DoD aims to support service members in managing expenses and maintaining their well-being. As the program rolls out, continued monitoring and adjustments may further enhance its impact, helping to alleviate some of the economic hardships experienced by our troops.

Permanent Change of Station (PCS) moves are a regular part of life for military families. However, these moves can be stressful, especially for active-duty breastfeeding mothers concerned about maintaining their breast milk supply for their babies during this stressful period. The Department of Defense (DoD) has taken a significant step to alleviate this concern by offering reimbursement for shipping breast milk during PCS moves.

As of the June 2024 Joint Travel Regulation (JTR) update, the DoD will reimburse up to $1,000 for shipping breast milk during a PCS move. This initiative is in part a broader effort to support service members and their families through all the challenges of military life, acknowledging this unique challenge.

This reimbursement covers the costs of shipping breast milk to the service member’s new duty station, including dry ice, excess baggage fees, and shipping costs for active-duty nursing mothers. The reimbursement does not cover containers for storing breastmilk – that is a different benefit through TRICARE for pump parts and bags. This is particularly beneficial for families undergoing long-distance moves, including OCONUS moves, or those where the service member has to travel ahead of the family. By ensuring a steady supply of breast milk, this program helps maintain the health and well-being of infants and reduces the stress on breastfeeding mothers while maintaining their milk supply.

To qualify for the reimbursement, service members must provide documentation of their PCS orders and receipts for the shipping expenses. The process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring that service members can quickly be reimbursed and access the financial support they need.

This new policy is a welcome change for many in the military community. Breastfeeding offers numerous health benefits for infants, including essential nutrients and antibodies that help protect against infections. For mothers, breastfeeding can promote faster postpartum recovery and reduce the risk of certain cancers, diabetes and high blood pressure. By supporting breastfeeding through this reimbursement program, the DoD contributes to the overall health of military families.

The decision to reimburse shipping costs for breast milk aligns with the DoD’s ongoing efforts to enhance family support services. It acknowledges the critical role that family well-being plays in service members’ readiness and morale. This initiative is expected to be especially helpful for dual-military families and single-parent service members who may face additional logistical challenges during PCS moves.

In conclusion, the DoD’s reimbursement for breast milk shipping during PCS moves is a significant step forward in supporting military families. It alleviates a specific stressor for breastfeeding mothers, ensuring their babies can continue receiving the best possible nutrition during transitions. This policy benefits the health of infants and mothers and underscores the DoD’s commitment to the well-being of its service members and their families.

Summer is the perfect time to focus on health and fitness, with longer days and warmer weather providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Whether at home or traveling, many ways exist to stay active and enjoy the season. Here are some fitness tips and ideas for adults and children of all ages to help you make the most of your summer.

1. Create a Backyard Obstacle Course

Creating a backyard obstacle course using everyday items is a fun and engaging way to stay active at home. This activity is perfect for both adults and children and can be customized to fit any space.

Materials Needed:

• Hula hoops
• Cones or plastic cups
• Pool noodles
• Rope or string
• Household items like chairs, buckets, and brooms

Setting Up the Course:

• Jump Through Hoops: Lay hula hoops on the ground and have participants jump from one hoop to the next.
• Weave Through Cones: Set up a zigzag path using cones or cups for participants to weave through.
• Crawl Under Pool Noodles: Prop up pool noodles on chairs to create a low tunnel for crawling.
• Balance on a Rope: Lay a rope or string on the ground and challenge participants to walk along it without stepping off.
• Hop Over Brooms: Place brooms on the ground and have participants hop over them.

This obstacle course encourages cardiovascular exercise, improves coordination, and provides a fun way to compete with family members.

2. Family Fitness Challenges

Organize family fitness challenges to keep everyone motivated and active. These challenges can be tailored to suit different ages and fitness levels.

Ideas for Challenges:

• Step Count Competition: Use pedometers or smartphone apps to track daily steps. Set a goal and see who can achieve it first.
• Plank Challenge: See who can hold a plank position the longest. This is a great core-strengthening exercise for all ages.
• Jump Rope Challenge: Count how many jumps each person can do in a minute. Jumping rope is excellent for cardiovascular health and coordination.

3. Staying Active With Travel

Staying active while traveling can be a challenge. This is especially difficult when PCSing with the military. You must move with the military, but also want to remain active. If you have a long road trip move ahead of you, with a little creativity, you can maintain your fitness routine and explore new places at the same time.

While Driving:

• Stretch Breaks: Plan stops every couple of hours to stretch and walk around. Simple stretches and short walks can prevent stiffness and improve circulation.
• Mini Workouts: Use rest stops to do quick workouts like squats, lunges, and jumping jacks.

At Your Destination:

• Explore on Foot or by Bike: Walking or biking is a great way to explore a new area. Look for local trails, parks, or bike rental services.
• Hotel Room Workouts: To stay active without any equipment, do bodyweight exercises like push-ups, sit-ups, and burpees.

4. Water Activities

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of water activities, which provide a full-body workout and are suitable for all ages.

Ideas for Water Activities:

• Swimming: Whether in a pool, lake, or ocean, swimming is a great way to stay active and cool off.
• Kayaking or Canoeing: These activities work the upper body and core while allowing you to enjoy nature.
• Water Aerobics: For a low-impact workout, try water aerobics. Many community pools offer classes, or you can create your own routine with family and friends.

5. Incorporate Fun Fitness Games

Turn exercise into play with fun fitness games that can be enjoyed by both adults and children.

Games to Try:

• Freeze Tag: A classic game that keeps everyone running and laughing.
• Frisbee or Disc Golf: Great for improving coordination and getting some aerobic exercise.
• Relay Races: Set up simple relay races with different activities like running, hopping, and balancing.

By creating fun fitness challenges, exploring new places actively, and making the most of outdoor opportunities, you can ensure that everyone remains active and has fun throughout the season.

Summer slide refers to the loss of academic skills and knowledge during summer vacation. This phenomenon can affect students of all ages but is particularly concerning for younger children who are building foundational skills in reading, writing, and math. Several factors contribute to summer slide, including a lack of structured learning, reduced practice time to work on academic skills, and limited access to educational resources.

To counteract the summer slide, it’s essential to engage children in learning activities that are both educational and enjoyable. Here are several ways to do this:

Ways to Engage Children in Learning During Summer

Reading Programs and Challenges

Why It Works: Regular reading helps maintain and improve literacy skills and encourages a love of reading and lifelong learning.

How to Implement:

• Library Programs: Many public libraries offer summer reading programs with incentives for completing books. Encourage your child to join and set personal reading goals. Check out the DOD MWR Library for the summer reading program on Beanstack.
• Reading Challenges: Create a family reading challenge with rewards for reaching milestones. This could include a certain number of books read or time spent reading each day.
• Book Clubs: Form a book club with your child’s friends where they can discuss books and share recommendations.

Educational Games and Apps

Why It Works: Educational games make learning fun and interactive, helping children engagingly reinforce skills.

How to Implement:

• Math and Literacy Apps: Use apps designed to improve math and literacy skills. Apps like Khan Academy Kids, ABCmouse, and Prodigy make learning feel like play.
• Board Games and Puzzles: Invest in educational board games and puzzles that promote strategic thinking, vocabulary building, and math skills. Educational board games include games like Monopoly or LIFE working on math skills like counting and reasoning.

STEM Activities and Experiments

Why It Works: Hands-on activities in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) encourage critical thinking and problem-solving.

How to Implement:

• Home Science Experiments: Conduct simple science experiments at home. Resources like the Exploratorium’s website offer a variety of experiments using household items. Check out library books like “Science Experiments in the Kitchen” using everyday items to learn and explore through STEM experiments.
• STEM Kits: Purchase STEM kits with all the materials and instructions for building and experimenting. These kits cover topics from robotics to chemistry and advance in challenge for different age ranges.
• Nature Exploration: Explore the natural world through gardening, birdwatching, or hiking, where children can learn about biology and ecology. The library is another great resource for identifying plants and animals in the local area.

Writing Projects

Why It Works: Writing enhances literacy skills and creativity. Regular practice maintains and improve writing abilities.

How to Implement:

• Journaling: Encourage your child to keep a summer journal, documenting their daily experiences, thoughts, and feelings.
• Story Writing: Have your child write their own stories or comic strips. Provide prompts if they need help getting started.
• Pen Pals: Set up a pen pal exchange with friends or relatives. Writing letters helps children practice their writing skills in a meaningful context, and won’t feel like work when they are writing to a friend.

Educational Outings

Why It Works: Learning experiences outside the classroom can be both educational and memorable, providing practical applications of academic concepts.

How to Implement:

• Museums and Zoos: Visit local museums, zoos, and aquariums. Many offer summer programs and activities designed for children.
• Historical Sites: Explore nearby historical sites and landmarks. This can spark interest in history and social studies.
• Nature Centers: Go to nature centers and parks that offer educational programs about local flora and fauna.

Online Learning Platforms

Why It Works: Online platforms offer a wealth of resources for structured learning in a flexible format.

How to Implement:

• Virtual Classes: Enroll your child in virtual summer classes on platforms like Khan Academy, Coursera, or Outschool. These platforms offer courses in a wide range of subjects at a variety of prices.
• Interactive Lessons: Use websites like BrainPOP and National Geographic Kids that offer interactive lessons and videos on various topics.

Creative Arts and Crafts

Why It Works: Creative activities support cognitive development and can incorporate educational elements such as geometry in drawing or science in crafting.

How to Implement:

• Art Projects: Engage in art projects that require planning and problem-solving. Examples include painting, sculpting, or building models.
• Music and Dance: Learning to play an instrument or engaging in dance can improve memory, coordination, and discipline.
• Craft Kits: Use craft kits that come with instructions and materials to create educational projects, and take the stress out of planning or shopping for the activity.

Volunteering and Community Service

Why It Works: Volunteering teaches children about responsibility, empathy, and social studies while providing practical life skills.

How to Implement:

• Community Projects: Participate in community service projects, such as neighborhood cleanups or helping at a local food bank.
• Family Volunteer Days: Organize family volunteer days where you all work together on a project. This can strengthen family bonds while teaching valuable lessons.

Encouraging Participation

To ensure children are enthusiastic about these activities, involve them in the planning, set achievable goals, and balance the learning with fun. Don’t make the summer all about math or writing, especially if these are activities they struggle with during the school year. Make the activities and prompts fun, allowing for growth and learning in a fun environment. By implementing these strategies, parents can help their children avoid the summer slide, ensuring they return to school ready to succeed.

Supporting children through the summer when a military parent is absent can be challenging, but numerous resources and strategies can help ease this transition and provide stability. Organizations such as FOCUS, Military OneSource, Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs), and military-specific summer camps offer invaluable support tailored to the unique needs of military families. Here’s an in-depth look at how these programs and other strategies can assist children during a parent’s deployment.

FOCUS (Families OverComing Under Stress)

FOCUS is a program designed to support military families through various challenges, including parental deployment. It offers resilience training to help families and children develop coping skills and manage stress effectively.

• Skill-Building: FOCUS provides tools for enhancing communication, problem-solving, and emotional regulation. These skills are crucial for children dealing with the absence of a parent, providing the tools for children to articulate their feelings and navigate daily challenges.
• Family Sessions: The program offers family sessions that include all members, ensuring everyone’s voice is heard and providing a platform for discussing feelings and concerns. This can be particularly beneficial during the summer when routines are less structured, and the absence of a parent may be felt more acutely.
• Youth Programs: FOCUS offers specific programs for children and teens tailored to different age groups. These include activities and workshops that teach resilience and coping strategies in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.

Military OneSource

Military OneSource is a comprehensive resource offering a wide range of support services for military families, accessible 24/7. It provides confidential help and connects families with various programs and resources.

• Counseling Services: Military OneSource offers free, confidential counseling services for children and families. These can be conducted via phone, online, or in-person, providing flexibility to fit busy summer schedules.
• Educational Resources: The platform provides educational materials and resources specifically designed to help children understand and cope with deployment. These include books, videos, and online activities that can keep children engaged and informed.
• Summer Camps and Programs: Military OneSource can help families find summer camps and programs tailored to military children. These camps often focus on building resilience, leadership skills and fostering connections with other military kids facing similar experiences.

Military Family Life Counselors (MFLCs)

MFLCs provide non-medical counseling services to military families, focusing on short-term, solution-focused support.

• School-Based Support: Many MFLCs are embedded in schools with high populations of military children. During the summer, they may offer programs and workshops in community centers or partner with local organizations to provide ongoing support.
• Individual Counseling: MFLCs offer one-on-one counseling sessions for children, providing a safe space to express their feelings and work through the challenges of having an absent parent. These sessions can be crucial in helping children maintain emotional stability during the summer months.
• Group Activities: MFLCs often organize group activities and support groups where children can interact with peers going through similar experiences. These interactions can foster a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

Operation Purple Camps

While the in-person camps have an application deadline in February, the virtual camp open to families throughout the summer is called Operation Purple Summer Challenge. The virtual camp can be accessed anywhere, with activities to keep kids busy, active and learning. Weekly “global gatherings” connect the group with other participants around the world. Families can earn “badges” for completing weekly challenges to ultimately earn the Operation Purple Summer Challenge pennant.

Additional Strategies and Activities

Beyond these programs, there are various other ways to support children through the summer when a military parent is deployed:

• Routine and Structure: Maintaining a daily routine can provide a sense of stability and normalcy. Establish regular mealtimes, bedtimes, and activity schedules to create a predictable environment.
• Creative Outlets: Encourage children to express their feelings through creative activities such as drawing, writing, or music. Journaling can be therapeutic, allowing them to document their thoughts and emotions.
• Physical Activity: Regular physical activity can help reduce stress and improve mood. Enroll children in sports, swimming lessons, or family hikes to keep them active and engaged.
• Family Projects: Engage in family projects that can provide a sense of accomplishment and teamwork. Gardening, building a birdhouse, or creating a scrapbook of memories to share with the deployed parent upon their return can be meaningful activities.
• Communication with the Deployed Parent: Facilitate regular communication with the deployed parent through video calls, letters, and care packages. Encouraging children to share their daily experiences can help maintain a connection despite the distance.
• Support Networks: Connect with other military families who understand the unique challenges of deployment. Organize playdates, group outings, or informal support groups to build a supportive community.

Supporting children through the summer with an absent military parent involves leveraging available resources and creating a nurturing, stable environment. Programs like FOCUS, Military OneSource, MFLCs  and summer camps for military children provide essential support tailored to the needs of military families, offering counseling, educational resources, and community connections. By combining these resources with consistent routines, creative activities, and physical exercise, families can help children navigate the emotional challenges of deployment and foster resilience. Building strong support networks and maintaining open lines of communication are key strategies in ensuring that children feel connected, supported, and understood during this challenging time.