At Moorland School, we deeply value the dedication and sacrifices made by our military families. Deployment can be a challenging time for both service members and their loved ones, but staying connected as a family is not only possible but essential for maintaining strong bonds and emotional well-being during these periods of separation.

The Challenges of Deployment

When a family member is deployed, it often brings about significant changes for everyone involved. From managing daily routines to coping with feelings of absence, deployments can be an emotional rollercoaster. For children, the experience of missing a parent can be particularly hard, as they may struggle to understand why their parent has to be away.

For parents left at home, balancing work, parenting, and emotional support for their children can feel overwhelming. Meanwhile, the deployed service member may also feel the weight of separation, worrying about their family’s well-being while fulfilling their duties far from home.

Tips for Staying Connected

At Moorland School, we encourage military families to explore creative ways to stay connected during deployments. Here are a few practical strategies that can make a big difference:

1. Use Technology to Bridge the Distance: Tools like video calls, instant messaging, and email make it easier than ever to stay in touch. Schedule regular check-ins to keep everyone feeling included in each other’s lives.
2. Create a Countdown Calendar: For younger children, a countdown calendar or chain can visually mark the days until their loved one returns.
3. Send Care Packages and Letters: A handwritten letter or a care package filled with favourite snacks, drawings, or small mementoes can brighten a deployed family member’s day and remind them of home.
4. Record Special Messages: Recordings of bedtime stories, songs, or special messages can comfort children when they’re missing their deployed parent.

Moorland School’s Commitment to Military Families

At Moorland School, we’re proud to support our military families by providing resources, understanding, and a strong sense of community. Our staff are here to help students navigate the unique challenges of deployment, offering counselling services, peer support groups, and special events to honour our military families.

If your family is facing an upcoming deployment, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for support. We’re here to ensure that your child feels understood, valued, and supported every step of the way.