Month of the Military Child

April is quickly approaching and with that comes my school's favorite celebration, the Month of the Military Child. There are more than 1.2 million kids around the world that have a parent that is active duty in the military. Growing up as a military child can be incredibly difficult. When my dad was deployed I had to rely on my teachers and friends within the community for support. I had crippling anxiety not knowing what to expect, or what was going on. With frequent moves, new schools, new friends, uncertainty, and oftentimes anxiety, being a military child is both a blessing and a challenge. With these challenges we want to celebrate the hardships many of these kids face, because they serve too. 
    Created in 1986 the first Month of the Military Child was established by Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger. Since then it has become a time to celebrate these kids and their experiences. The selected color representing the Month of the Military Child is purple to represent all service branches. Below you will find strategies and ways to help celebrate these kids.

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Ways to support Military Kids

• Wear purple on April 15th, for Purple Up! Day
• Read aloud to your class a book focusing on military kids. 
  • Don’t Forget, God Bless Our Troops by Jill Biden
  • Lily Hates Goodbyes by Jerilyn Marler
  • ​Hero Mom and Hero Dad by Melinda Hardin

 More resources and printable activities are available through MCEC and Purple Up! USA