When a parent is called away for military deployment, the entire rhythm of family life shifts overnight. For children, this can be confusing, frightening, and disorienting — even when they understand, on some level, why it's happening. The good news is that parents and caregivers have real, practical tools to help kids not just survive deployment, but cope with it in genuinely healthy ways. Start With Honesty The first and most important step is telling your child about the d