Fort Campbell, Kentucky (April 13, 2022) — Imagine floating on a breeze of endless possibilities that could allow you to experience a variety of regions, states, and cultures in the United States and beyond. There’s only one catch — you don’t get to choose where you will land or how long you will stay. So, you lean into the adventure, expect the unexpected, and arrive with a positive attitude willing to make the most of everything until it’s time to pack up and catch the next jet stream.
Such is the experience of military families. April is observed as the Month of the Military Child (MOMC), when we all celebrate the strength and resiliency of the kids who live within the unique circumstances of the military lifestyle.
Military children are referred to by many different terms, including MilKids, dandelions, and brats. The
Melissa Anderson’s daughter Theia
dandelion flower symbolizes the nature of going where the wind blows you, and then quickly laying down roots wherever you may land. “Military brat” is viewed as a term of endearment, and doesn’t have the negative connotation the word “brat” evokes in the civilian world.
The average military child moves at least every three years, and sometimes more frequently. It takes a lot of effort and coordination for a military child to participate in extracurriculars and sports with any continuity. Military kids tend to form strong, deep bonds quickly because the clock starts ticking as soon as they move somewhere new. They excel at staying in the present moment because they understand from a young age that time is precious.
Access to technology allows military kids to stay connected with their friends as they scatter. They can quickly rattle off the time difference between Alaska and the East Coast, and everywhere in between.
“As a military kid, you get to see a lot of different places and make a lot of friends. One of my favorite things is to redecorate my room in each new home and eat different kinds of foods from unique, local restaurants. I have learned more than the basic subjects by going to different schools in different states. Overall, being a military kid is pretty sweet.” Dandelion Theia (age 12)
These resilient kids didn’t choose this life, it was chosen for them. Support the movement and celebrate the Month of the Military Child by wearing purple every Friday in April. Look for MOMC events in your community and take time to honor, celebrate, and cherish military children.
Learn more about the Month of the Military Child on the Digital Works website. Click the link below
- Celebrating the Month of the Military Child 2020
- VIDEO: Connected Nation celebrates the Month of the Military Child 2021
About the Author: Melissa Anderson is the new Facilitator and Development Coordinator for the Digital Works (a Connected Nation Initiative) Fort Campbell location, bringing more than 17 years employment and volunteer experience with remote work environments, training, and development. In addition to being an active-duty Army spouse, she has a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Behavior and a master’s degree in Training & Development. She enjoys everything associated with books, reading, and learning and she is passionate about supporting the military family community.