Keep the Communication Going.

• Usually we’re not big fans of technology at the table, but if you can Skype or do FaceTime with a loved one during a meal, we fully endorse it!
• Write postcards once a week during dessert.
• Write a “Letter by Sentence”—a twist on our Story by Sentence game in which everyone around the table writes a sentence (or draws a picture if they prefer) for the lucky recipient.
• Sharing your favorite and funny stories about your service member is a great way to make his or her presence felt and, bonus: studies show storytelling helps build resilience in kids!

Conversation Starter:

Break out a map at the table and identify the place where the loved one is deployed/TDY. Ask: What do you think it’s like in _____, and let your children’s imaginations fly!