Hello defence families, now that some things are trying to get back to normal with some military members heading off on exercises, courses and deployment, here are a few tips to help with these absences.

Also don't forget to remind your children that defence club is on every Wednesday at morning tea.  This may help with absences as well, keeping your children busy and providing regular check-ins between us.

One: Establish a routine for you and your little one(s).

• Coordinate naps
• Play time
• Mealtimes same time each day and pre-plan meals.
• Bath time
• Bedtime routine – read a book or sing to them

Two: Playgroups, first time parent groups, or playdates with other parents.

• Socialisation is required to get you out of the house.

o   Walks in pram

o   Library – Libraries often have programs for parents and bubs.

Three: Emotional support – family or friends.

• Having someone you can call anytime day or night.

Four: Crisis plan – when you are having a rough night or your little one is sick.

• Have a list of contacts that you might need in emergencies.

o   Emergency friend or relative to speak with day or night.

o   Police

o   Ambulance

o   After hours GP – Doctor to your Door

o   Defence Member and Family Helpline

o   Lifeline, Beyond Blue

Five: On-line support - when in doubt there is always help.

• Raising Children Network – www.raisingchildren.net.au
• One Place - online community service directory –  www.oneplace.org.au
• Australian Breastfeeding Association -  www.breastfeeding.asn.au
• Infant Management and Parenting Skills – Child, Youth and Family Health Ph. 44339000 www.townsville.health.qld.gov.au/services/community-health/child-youth-and-family-health-service/

Get to know us before you need us: Meet Jacqui

Jacqui has recently joined the team at DMFS as one of the Defence Social Workers.

Previously Jacqui has worked in Child & Family Support as a Therapeutic Child Practitioner and Domestic and Family Violence Specialist in Tasmania and Townsville. 

Jacqui has relocated back to her home town of Townsville so that she can spend time with her family and grandchildren after spending 20 years in Tasmania.

Welcome to the team Jacqui!

CONNECTING WITH YOUR DEFENCE COMMUNITY

Open Arms - Veterans and Families Counselling

Building Better Relationships

A program to help you rediscover what's important in your relationship and to rebuild a relationship with your partner.

• Focus on what works well to strengthen your relationship.
• Enhance the resilience of individual partners and the relationship.
• Create shared meaning through values and rituals of connection.
• Understand the emotions behind your partner's life dreams.
• Manage conflict positively and adopt a positive perspective.

Who can attend: Current and ex-serving ADF members and their partners. Adult children and their partners.

 

When: Three day program 8-10 June

Register: Program registration | Open Arms