Military children are celebrated during the entire month of April. Each year, the Department of Defense joins national, state and local government, schools, military serving organizations, companies and private citizens in celebrating military children. There are more than 1.6 million military children who face many challenges and unique experiences as a result of their parents’ service. We often forget the challenges faced by military children. Military families move on average every two to three years, impacting military children through changing schools and support networks.
Military bases worldwide offer events and celebrations during April as part of the Month of the Military Child. The events range from carnivals and festivals, to giveaways and freebies, family officials spend the month making military children feel special. Parents should check with their local base for details on the events in their area.
Also, there are many options to receive support for military children and parents. Take a look at the list of options we have below:
Support for Military Children:
Military Kids Connect – Resources to support military children ages 6-17 who are dealing with the psychological challenges of military life.
Boys & Girls Clubs of America – Children of active duty, National Guard and reserve families may be eligible for free membership to their local Boys & Girls Club.
4-H Military Partnerships – Young children can join 4-H clubs in their communities and participate in summer camps.
Sesame Street for Military Families – Education and activities for preschool aged children to help them cope with the challenges of military life.
Support for Military Parents:
Thrive Online Program for Parents – It’s a free online program that provides best-parenting guidelines that promote positive parenting, stress management and healthy lifestyle practices.
Expanded Hourly Child Care – Through Military OneSource, military families have free access to a national database of more than a million caregivers so they can find hourly, flexible and on-demand child care.
EFMP & Me – Use this tool to navigate through the Defense Department’s network of services and supports for families with special needs children.