When I Look Confused
I may be saying, “What’s going on here?” You can support me, especially when you first leave military service and so much is changing, by telling me what is happening in clear and simple words. “Mommy is coming home and…
If I Act Afraid of My Veteran Parent
When I pull away or act afraid of my veteran parent, what I may be saying is, “I need time to get to know you again and to feel safe and at ease with you.” You can support me by…
If a Lot of Noise Makes Me Upset
When I cry and get fussy when there is a lot of noise and/or people around, I may be saying, “It is upsetting—hard for me to take in all of the changes.” You can support me by keeping my daily…
When I Look Sad or I’m Clingy
I may be saying, “I feel tension. Something is going on.” or “I’m trying to understand what’s going on and feel a little in control of my life.” You can help me by offering simple, clear words for what is…
When I Ask Where My Veteran Parent Is
I may be saying, “I’m trying to understand what is going on and feel a little control in my life.” Tell me in simple, clear words what is happening. Invite me to help do something like draw a picture for…
When I Fuss When You Say Good-Bye
If I cry, kick, and scream when you leave me, even if it’s only for an hour and I’m with someone I know and like, I may be saying, “Life feels a little uncertain. I need you. I depend on you…
When I Act Like I Don’t Care
You may wonder about how I am feeling when I giggle, laugh, and play even though my parent is deployed. What I may be saying is, “Even though my Mom is gone, there is so much for me to see and do and…