Home/Resources/Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health/Helping Your Child Prepare for a Parent’s Deployment

Helping Your Child Prepare for a Parent’s Deployment

babyfam, parent,innocence,military uniform,young adult,casual,copy space, african american soldier in military uniform holding daughter in park

Infants and toddlers may not understand the specifics of an upcoming separation, but they can sense the increased stress in their homes.

Parents and other caregivers can assist their babies and toddlers by offering reassurance. Young children need to know that their caregivers will keep them physically and emotionally safe. Babies and toddlers often feel overwhelmed by their feelings and look to caregivers to help them manage these strong emotions. Caregivers who remain calm and attend to their children’s needs help create a sense of security.

 

Related Resources

Open Letter

How the Attention Economy Impacts Young Children

Dr. Radesky explains how today's digital media is capturing and commercializing young children’s attention, underscoring the need for stronger parent, platform, and policy responses.
Details
A mother and infant lying on a blanket
Webinar

How Stress and Instability Affect Babies’ Brains — and What Protects Them

Learn why the earliest years matter so much for lifelong health and how supporting families helps protect babies’ development.
Details
Virtual Event

Holding Space with Heart: Trauma and Young Children

Come together as a community to pause, connect, and support one another during a moment when our care and attention matter more than ever.
Details

Support ZERO TO THREE

We need your support now more than ever to ensure all babies have access to the quality care, services and support they need to thrive.