Children may need extra support when their parent or care giver is absent from home. These strategies can assist.
- Utilise the ADF Equip Program to help children deal with parental absence.
- Talk with children about the planned absence and listen to their worries.
- Encourage children to express their feelings and help them find ways to feel better with activities that build coping skills.
- Where possible try to keep normal daily routines and schedule in quality/fun time.
- Maintain connection and closeness with the absent parent - discuss and plan how to use the communication options available.
ADF parents need to maintain open and frequent communication with their children during absences. These strategies can assist.
- Record story telling, talking and singing before departing, so children can hear a parent's voice.
- Plan contact for important activities and event.
- Share everyday details and answer all questions children have.
- Send care packages home and ask children to send special packages too.
- If conversations are making it harder for children to adjust to a parent's absences, write letters instead.
Resources are available to help guide children through parental absence, including:
- books to help younger children understand the military lifestyle
- information sheets to support children with the challenges of separation
- welcome home banners.
Contact the Defence Member and Family Helpline to access resources and support.