How can you support the military parents on your team this month?

April is the “Month of the Military Child.”

Military children serve, too!

Children of active duty military move 6-9 times during their K-12 school years. Kids whose parents serve in the Guard and Reserve also relocate in support of their parent’s military service.

All of these kids endure change and/or the absence of their parents due to career moves, deployments, military schools and training – and experience the associated stressors, potentially resulting in educational and social challenges.

Announce April as the Month of the Military Child.

In your internal communications, thank military parent employees for their service and acknowledge that their “military children serve too.” Reference these toolkits:

1. Military One Source. Click here.
2. Military Child Education Coalition. Click here.

Create Company “Purple Up” Day.

Invite everyone to wear purple in honor of military children. Most schools celebrate it on April 15th, but you can create a unique day that is convenient for your business. Learn more here.

Provide Military Parents with:

1. A “Thank you” certificate to give to their children. Click here or here.
2. Psych/Armors’ training: “15 Things Military and Veteran Kids Want You to Know.” Click here.
3. Tips for raising resilient youth. Click here.
4. Military One Source’s resources and support for parents who currently serve. Click here.

Providing military parents with these resources fosters understanding and inclusivity, and honors their service. Thoughtful gestures also recognize the sacrifices of their children who serve alongside them.