It’s never easy to know what to say and do when a friend’s partner is fighting overseas. When he or she has children, it can be an even more difficult time for the family. There are many ways that a friend or neighbor can help the family and make things a little easier for them while their family member is away.
Offer a Safe Place
If your routine allows, offer your home as a place where the children can always come to hang out and give the parent a little time off. This is an especially nice gesture if you have children around the same age who get along well. Giving the parent some time off will allow them to keep their stress in check and have time to defuse from having to be strong for the sake of the family. The children will also enjoy a “break” from stresses at home and knowing that they have other adults and friends who care about them during a difficult time.
Make Freezable Meals
One of the easiest things you can do in the days and weeks following your friend’s partner’s deployment is to make food. Double recipes you make for your own family and take some over. Always prepare the food ready to be put into the fridge or the freezer if they don’t want to eat it right away. Having some frozen meals on hand can be nice during times when they are too busy, tired, or stressed to deal with preparing a meal.
Let Them Know You’re There
Keep communication open, even if you don’t know exactly how to help, you can ask what they need and what would help them as a family right now. Make sure that your friend knows you’re always there to support him or her and listen during this time.
