: The Challenges of Parenthood when a Spouse is Deployed
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(440 Words)
It can be very challenging for a parent when a spouse is deployed. The following are some of these challenges and tips for overcoming them.
The children’s fear over their parent’s deployment
When a child’s parent is deployed, it is not like he or she is just on a business trip. In addition to feeling the loss of his or her presence, the child is likely to feel fear for his or her safety. In all likelihood you share these feelings, but you should not allow your little children to hear you getting hysterical over it. You should be the calm one and their rock. You should tell them that the vast majority of troops come back just fine. Validate their fear but reassure them.
Of course you might be dealing with the sadness, fear and loneliness, too. Try to find some friends and others who can support you as well.
The physical work
Being a parent is a lot of physical work, especially if you have little kids that need to be lifted, carried and so forth. It can be difficult to do all of these things. You should get things to help you like strollers for the children. If you need help, see if a friend or family member can help you.
Having enough time for your children (and yourself)
Even people in families with two present parents sometimes find it a challenge to give the children all of the attention they want, especially with multiple kids. This can be even more difficult when your spouse is deployed and you are on your own. You might be able to help this by making yourself a schedule, being sure to include some alone time with each of your kids. Also important to put in is some time for yourself. Try to get some activities that some of the children can do on their own such as arts and crafts or reading. Set up a nice area in the house where you can all be. Also, some people don’t like to accept help – but it is okay if you do. It also might be worth it to get a mother’s helper or babysitter to provide a little of that extra help. If you get sick or are overwhelmed, this is especially important. Do NOT feel guilty if you need to have them watch television while you take a little break for yourself. With your spouse away, you are on parent duty 24/7 and it’s okay to need a break.
It is very challenging to be a parent with a deployed spouse. The above tips may aid you with this scenario.
Updated On: 09/05/2010 Published On: 09/05/2010 Article ViewerClose
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