A couple of days after an overseas PCS move, I wandered into my teen’s room to find him hanging up his favorite posters—boxes unpacked, bed made, everything in place.
For military families, that scene isn't unusual. Our kids become experts at moving, adjusting, and starting over at each new duty station. But just because they can handle it doesn't mean that it's easy.
Military children navigate a parent's deployments, frequent goodbyes, and the challenge of being the "new kid" over and over. Their resilience is remarkable, but it also deserves recognition and support.
That's where April comes in.
The Month of the Military Child is more than a symbolic nod. It's a reminder to be intentional about how we honor, encourage, and celebrate these amazing people. Here are some simple, meaningful ways to do just that.
What Is the Month of the Military Child?
In 1986, Secretary of Defense Caspar Weinberger designated April as the Month of the Military Child in the United States. It's a nationwide recognition of the significant role military children play in our communities and our country.
One of the most visible traditions is Purple Up! Day on April 15. The idea began with 4-H clubs in New Hampshire and has grown into a global show of support across military communities. People are encouraged to wear purple on April 15 each year to recognize and honor military children.
Why purple? Purple is the color that symbolizes all branches of the military, as it combines Army green, Marine red, and Coast Guard, Air Force, and Navy blue. Wearing purple lets military youth see the support of their communities.
6 Simple, Meaningful Ways to Support Military Kids
1. Celebrate Them—Out Loud
Take a moment to recognize your child’s strength.
- Write them a short note or letter
- Share a memory of something they handled well
- Call out their resilience in front of others
Military kids don’t always hear the recognition of how much they’re carrying.
2. Make Moving Easier (Even if It's Routine)
Military kids move every two to three years on average and change schools an average of six to nine times during their school years (Source: DOW). Even when they’re “good at it,” it’s still hard. Many military children have dealt with more changes in a few years than others do in decades.
Make transitions smoother by:
- Letting them set up their room first (a sense of control matters)
- Keeping a box of favorite items that always comes out first
- Helping them research their new location before arrival
If you need guidance, PCSing with Kids: Tips for Military Families offers practical ideas. Military OneSource's Making the Move Easier for Military-Connected Children also provides checklists and tools that aren't overwhelming.
3. Support Them During Deployments
Deployments can be one of the toughest parts of military life for kids.
Practical ways to help:
- Create a simple communication routine with the deployed parent (weekly video call, shared journal)
- Use countdown calendars for milestones
- Keep routines as consistent as possible at home
If your child is struggling, look into Military and Family Life Counselors (MFLCs) through your installation or Military OneSource. They provide confidential, no-cost support.
Photo by SDI Productions from Getty Images Signature via Canva.com
4. Help Them Find “Their People”
Connection changes everything, and there's nothing like a friend who understands.
Look for opportunities like:
- School-based programs like MCEC's Student 2 Student (S2S) Program
- Installation youth centers
- Youth Sponsorship Programs (which connect kids before you even PCS)
And if you want something more immersive, Operation Purple Camp offers free summer camps designed specifically for military kids dealing with deployment and transition stress.
5. Join Purple Up! and Then Go a Step Further
Yes, wear purple on April 15, but don’t stop there.
- Encourage your child’s school to participate
- Drop off purple treats or thank-you notes for military-connected students
- Share awareness on social media (your child may notice more than you think)
Visibility helps kids feel seen, not just supported quietly.
6. Give Them a Break from “Being Strong”
Military kids are often praised for being resilient, but they don’t need to be strong all the time. Build in regular breaks and moments of fun when you can.
This month, consider:
- A one-on-one “yes day” or outing
- Giving them space to talk—without rushing to solutions
Easing pressure can sometimes be the best way to help.
A Final Thought
Military kids don't choose this life, and April is a reminder to slow down and acknowledge that. To our military children, we say: I see you. I'm proud of you. And what you're doing matters.
How will you celebrate your military kids during the Month of the Military Child?
