5 Things to Know About Military Kids
The military child, or military brat as some call them, are a special breed of kid. They learn things and sacrifice more in life than most kids their age. With April being the Month of the Military Child, many military installations and organizations are taking time to honor and celebrate these special children.
What is a military child? What makes them unique? I took a moment to reflect on my own children and the other military children I have had the privilege of knowing:
1. Military kids learn the meaning of family and to appreciate it early in life. At any given moment, they may have to say goodbye to their parent as they leave for a mission in a remote location. They learn to appreciate each moment spent together.
2. Military kids are resilient. They say goodbye to friends many times throughout their lives and learn to quickly make new friends in unfamiliar places. They adapt to changes in routine and in life, understanding that adapting and overcoming is the best way to move forward in life.
3. Military kids are flexible. They understand that birthdays and holidays don’t have to be celebrated on the exact day. Sometimes, Christmas may happen in January and an 8th birthday may come a few weeks early, but that’s okay, because celebrating with our service member is more important than when.
4. Military kids are strong. They take on tasks and responsibilities within their families to help out when a parent is deployed. They stand strong when they wave goodbye to their parent. They sacrifice precious time with their mom or dad, knowing that their sacrifice is for a noble cause.
5. Most of all, military kids are just that, they are kids. They are proud of their military parent, just as we are proud of them. They unselfishly give their parent to serve and protect others. They sacrifice time with loved ones so that others may remain safe. As parents, these children bring love and joy to our lives.
With our guidance and understanding, our military kids will grow up to be strong and resilient adults. They will use their experiences as military “brats” to help them through the difficulties of adulthood and look back on their life in the military with fond memories.
This April, the Month of the Military Child, and every day, celebrate your military kids. Hug them, teach them, and honor them, but most of all, be thankful for them, for they are one of the greatest gifts in our lives.
We are a retired military family. But my grandson has been an awesome and inspiring example of the military child. My heart has broken for his challenges since he was in grade school each time his dad was called away and the adjustment time following. He has kept up his grades,worked and stayed active in Scouts and other activities while taking on Dad's daily chores. But he said to me recently, “well Grandma I don't always like it but everything has made me a stronger person. That is just life…and I am so proud of what my dad has done for me and our country.” We are so proud of both of them.
To my military kids.