Having to leave your family is an unfortunate aspect of military life. . .and in the past year, I have had to leave mine frequently. In preparation for my next TDY (Temporary Duty), I wanted to do something special to help my children count down the days until I would return.
Here is an idea for a simple craft that even a toddler can participate in AND it keeps the kids busy while Dad can have some time to himself. Make paper chains representing the number of days that you will be absent.
Materials that we used:
Construction paper (we used printer paper and scrapbooking paper instead)
Glue Sticks or tape
Scissors or paper cutter
Crayons/Markers
Sharpie
Step 1: Decorate and Cut Paper
Have your children color and decorate each sheet of paper. Use scissors or a paper cutter to cut the paper into similar sized strips for your rings. You should have a strip for each day that you will be gone to include zero (representing the day of your arrival).
If the member will be gone for several months or a year, each strip can represent a month instead of days. Do what is best for your situation.
Step 2: Organize, Number and Write messages on Paper Strips
Mix up the strips for variety or to ensure that each child's design will be represented. Number each strip on one side and write a special message on the other side of the paper. This message can be encouragement for your spouse or a joke that the kids will enjoy. For example, I wrote comments like: "half way there", "everyone give Daddy a big hug", and "mommy misses you".
Step 3: Assemble Chains
Using either glue or tape, assemble your chains in descending order. Glue sticks would be awesome for younger helpers or if you are trying to increase hand/finger strength, white school glue is acceptable as well.
Step 4: Explain the Concept and Apply
Once the "chain count down" is assembled, display it in a place of the home where it will be seen daily. Mine is hung in my eat in kitchen so my children can see it during breakfast and dinner. Tell your children to remind your spouse incase they forget. Removing the strips can be forgotten when life is hectic. Remember, that your spouse will essentially be a single parent until you return. They need all the help and reminding they can get.
