Being a military family can be very hard at times, especially when the family is torn apart and separated for a period of time due to deployments or training. I remember there were times where my significant other was gone for 12 weeks at a time and also sometimes for 6-8 months. You never really honestly know how long your loved one may be gone for. The best thing you can do is to find ways to be together when they are home, but also when they are gone.
The obvious and most easiest thing you can do as a family is to spend time together while everyone is home, but also when your other half is gone still include them in activities with the kids.
Here Are Some Ideas:
- Care Packages and Letters - As a spouse I am sure you have heard before, if you have been through deployments, that there are items that the service member misses most while gone. This may be your opportunity to send letter and care packages that include some of their favorite items.
- Countdown - Most of the time kids love visual items so a countdown can be really helpful to them to understand better when they will get to see their parent again in person.
- Family Traditions - Whether your spouse is home with you guys or gone you should stick to family traditions. Better yet, if everyone is home the family should come up with their own new family traditions.
- Dating - Do not ever stop dating! Plan a weekly date with your spouse and find a babysitter if you have kids. Spend time together alone without the interference of your kids. Discuss how you want to spend your time together and make it a habit to communicate with your other half.
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