Military kids are my heroes.
Through a life not of their choosing, they show us firsthand every day how remarkable they are. Military "brats" are a special breed. They tend to be adaptable, worldly, and well-traveled.
Even with a parent's unwavering support and positivity, military life, deployments, and PCS moves can take a toll on children and you might need some help. Though you may have a supportive community or access to military oriented resources, the saying "it takes a village" about raising kids is never truer than in the context of military life.
Thankfully, these days there's more support than ever for military kids, so we're highlighting a few resources in this post. There are so many programs out there, we couldn't possibly cover them all, but feel free to share your favorite program or resource in the comments.
Educational Resources
1) Military Child Education Coalition (MCEC)
Education support for military kids with a mission of "inclusive, quality educational opportunities for all military-connected children affected by mobility, transition, deployments and family separation."
2) Seasons of My Military Student
From military spouses Amanda Trimillos, EdD, and Stacy Allsbrook-Huisman, a website and education resource book for military families of school-aged students and their teachers.
3) Meg Flanagan Education Solutions
Military spouse, mom, teacher, and author of the book, Talk to the Teacher, Meg offers numerous resources for military families including a free consult, education coaching, advocacy, and free resources.
Resources for Deployment or Separation from Parent
1) The Comfort Crew for Military Kids
A non-profit providing supportive resources and programs for military kids, including "Comfort Kits," the With You All the Way! tours, and the new Comfort Crew Academy and app.
2) Hug-a-Hero
Originally known as "Daddy Dolls", you'll find custom comfort items created for military kids, using a photo you provide.
3) United Through Reading
A non-profit connecting separated military families through recording and sharing story time moments for their families to enjoy while the military member is away. Download their free app, visit a Story Station near you, or find community events on their website.
Resources for PCS Moves
1) Youth Sponsorship Program
Ease the moving transition by connecting kids with a peer before you even arrive at your new duty station. This program is administered by school and youth services programs at local installations. Learn more in our post, Ease the PCS Transition with the Youth Sponsorship Program.
2) Student 2 Student Program from Military Education Coalition
An initiative from MCEC, the Student 2 Student connects military and civilian children with a goal of providing a welcome for new military kids and easing transitions.
3) Military OneSource Children, Youth, and Teens
Find "MilLife Guides," products, resources, articles, and support for many topics affecting military kids, including managing stress, changing schools, and mental health support.
Other Resources for Military Kids and Parents
1) Mil Mom Adventures
Info and insight on kid-friendly adventures, encouraging family time to build resilience. You'll find destinations, resource reviews, and educational resources, all geared towards military families.
2) Operation Purple Camp
From the National Military Family Association, a free week of camp for military children to connect with other military kids and receive support.
3) Operation We Are Here
This Military Children & Teen Resource Directory is an extensive list of resources for military kids and teens. It covers topics such as suggested books, camps and programs, contests, EFMP resources, family-friendly activities, and so much more.
During April, Month of the Military Child and always, we can't ever express enough support for our heroes—military kids. Thank you!
