They have to cope with separation from deployed parents, frequent house moves, new schools and repeatedly having to say goodbye to friends.
But this month we show our appreciation and raise awareness of our Army children’s amazing contribution to their schools and communities.
Here are just a few of the resources you can use to celebrate Month of the Military Child in April.
AFF’s Month of the Military Child page contains lots of information and useful links, as does the MOD webpage.
Forces Children’s Education has put together suggestions on different ways schools and families can mark the month.
The official flower of the military child is the dandelion, because no matter where its seeds are scattered by the wind, it will take root and blossom. You can wear yellow accessories like socks or scrunchies on 4 April, chosen by Little Troopers as Dandelion Day. Take a photo and send it to info@littletroopers.net or tag the charity on social media. Other events include a fun run and family day at Tidworth on 13 April.
Experience the Deployment Rollercoaster
Schools can download Forces Children Scotland’s assembly pack for primary schools to help pupils understand the strengths and lived experience of children from Forces families. They can also access an interactive Deployment Rollercoaster resource, which gives them a taste of the emotional ups and downs faced by children when their parents are deployed.
Never Such Innocence has a range of resources for schools, including a Dandelions Song music video, backing track and sheet music that can be used for an assembly.
There’s a poetry and art competition for individuals aged eight to 18 with £25 gift vouchers for the winners and the whole school has a chance to win a £250 book voucher donated by the Armed Forces Education Trust for the best school display.
Purple Up Day
Everyone has a chance to show their support for Forces children by dressing in purple on 25 April. It started in the US over a decade ago and the colour was chosen to represent all branches of the military.
Wales marks Purple Up Day on 30 April. SSCE Cymru is asking people to get involved by wearing purple or creating purple artwork. They can then send their photos to SSCECymru@wlga.gov.uk or post them on social media with the hashtag #MotMCCymru and a message thanking Service children for their important role in the military community.
POSTED ON 1 APRIL 2025
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