What to tell the kids?

[SarSardonic]

How much do you tell your children?

My oldest son was born during my husband's last deployment, so I didn't have this issue last time....

Now my kids are 3 years old and 18 months old, and I don't know what/how much to say about where their daddy is, what he's doing, and when/if he's coming back....

 

[SarSardonic]

Anyone?

I keep saying "daddy's at work" but other people mention "war" and "Afghanistan" around the kids....
How much should I say?
Do I mention the fact that "Daddy might not make it back..."?

Any input is much appreciated.

Thank you.

God bless.

 

[notanordinarygirl]

Tough. I'd be interested in knowing the answer to this, too. My son is 8 months old and my husband still hasn't been deployed, but will probably be deployed eventually.

 

[keith99]

My only firm adivice is NO NOT LIE. If they ask speak truthfully.

I'm inclined to think there is no good in pushing too much on them, but I'm also inclined to think it is better they hear things from you than elsewhere.

Also be concerend with listening to your children. A conversation is better than a lecture, and be ready to change your direction. Often adults read far to much into a childs question and give answers that say far too much. In a conversation you can decide to say more or less depending on yuor childs responce.

For example, if you live onbase and some other childs father comes home and yuor husband does not the child may ask why. Your childs 'concern' may have nothign to do with military matters, just fairness, and may best be answered by some form of 'because it is his turn'.