5 Ways Sesame Workshop Supports Military Families
Living in a military family is a rewarding experience filled with opportunities and adventures, but also unique challenges. It’s natural for both children and parents to occasionally feel overwhelmed by the circumstances of military life — being far from loved ones, relocating to new places, or dealing with frequent changes in routine.
That’s why Sesame Workshop, in partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD), Office of Military Family and Community Policy (MC&FP), launched Sesame Street for Military Families, an ongoing initiative helping the families of those who serve find new ways to connect and feel supported in every season of life. Check out 5 ways these free resources can help, and visit SesameStreetforMilitaryFamilies.org to learn more.
1. Managing Changes Together
Change is one of life’s great certainties, and no one knows that better than military families. Whether the changes your family faces are big or small, this article helps caregivers provide children with grounding connections and reassurance through it all.
2. Saying Goodbye Before Time Apart
Goodbyes can be difficult for both parents and children. Bye Bye For Now is a beautiful song that speaks to these big feelings and can serve as a helpful conversation-starter for families navigating military service together.
3. Connecting During Happy and Challenging Times
Sunny, Cloudy, Stormy Days is an engaging online game that allows children to explore the day-to-day routines that help Rosita feel grounded through both happy and difficult times. This interactive activity can help children and their caregivers share playful learning moments they can then discuss together.
4. Building a Supportive Community
A strong community — both in and outside of the home — can help family members feel safe and secure, as well as promote an integral sense of fellowship. In this interview, mother-of-two Sheila explains her experience building powerful communal bonds and connections while her husband was on active duty.
5. Making New Friends
Meeting and making new friends can be overwhelming for children when their family moves to a new place. To make the process a little easier, families can dive into a fun and engaging craft project that serves as a creative icebreaker tool for newcomers of any age: New Friend Coupons!
