How to Be a Military Dad

It is not easy to be in the military, especially during times of active deployment. Being away from those that you love can feel like next to impossible, especially when you have children you must leave behind at home. It takes great strength and courage to be a military dad. Read on to learn how to be a military dad.

Instructions

Difficulty: Challenging

1. Keep a daily journal. You might even want to keep two. One where you can record your personal feelings freely and know that they will remain confidential and another that you can share with the children. In the one you will share with the children let them know how much they were on your mind and in your heart while you were away.
2. Encourage the children to write to you. Depending on where you are stationed there is most likely a significant lag time between when the letters are mailed and when you receive them. But it is nice to hear about life back home and writing letters to Dad is a great way for the kids to feel you are not missing their life.
3. Write back when you can, especially when you can't use other means of communication like email and calls back home very much.
4. Talk openly with the children and your role in the military. Keep the conversation age appropriate but answer any questions they have as honestly as you can. Discuss their fears and yours.
5. Know that you are not alone. Talk to others about the children and spouses that they left behind at home. Sharing stories with others is a great way to keep the family close in your thoughts and heart while you are away.
6. Make the most of your leave and time at home. Focus on the quality not the quantity of the time you get to spend with the children. As much as possible, leave work at work and enjoy family time after work hours.