Children develop best when surrounded by people who care about their well-being and love them. However, there are a variety of situations that can occur in a child's life that can remove them from the immediate care of their parents and families. These situations can cause stress on children and create new challenges in parenting and supporting them. We all play an essential role in helping children to regulate their emotions and cope with loss, especially the removal, even if temporary, of a primary caregiver. Provided below are resources and supports for children who have had a change in caregiving due to Divorce and Separation, Incarceration of a Parent or Family Member, and Military Deployments.

Divorce and Separation

Divorce is hard on parents and children. It requires all family members to transition and adjust their communication and roles with their children. Divorce and separation can have unforeseen consequences on the emotional, social, and physical well-being of children. It is crucial to have clear and age-appropriate conversations with children, which can be hard for parents who are coping with their feelings of heart-ache, anger, or a sense of loss. 

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Incarceration or a Parent or Family Member

Incarceration is a traumatic and emotional event for the entire family. New challenges arise with parenting from a distance, keeping the family connected, and supporting the emotional needs of children. When it is safe for children, we must support the health and well-being of children by maintaining communication, visitation, and physical connection between children and parents.

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Military Deployment

Military families face several challenges before, during, and after deployment. The cycle of deployment begins when news of deployment is shared with the family. As departure grows closer, a period of detachment and withdrawal between family members may occur. Children may feel angry or as if their parent is abandoning them by leaving. When a family member returns home, each person will have changed in ways that require adjustment within the family.

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