In "normal" times, a member of the military Reserve or National Guard is available to help take care of the kids while the spouse is working, running errands, participating in civic activities, or just doing personal stuff. When one spouse is called for active duty, suddenly the other parent has the full burden of caring for the child(ren) in addition to usual activities. Babysitters or professional childcare will often be necessary, placing an unexpected financial burden on the family.

Employers--of the activated service member and/or of the spouse--can make a profound difference by covering the cost of childcare that is over and beyond the family's normal budget. Whether this support is provided through babysitters from the community, fellow employees, or commercial childcare firms will depend on family circumstances, specific needs, and available resources.

This support should not be just a "sometimes" thing. Those families, acccustomed to having both parents on duty, will have to meet the challenges on an ongoing basis.

[ Home · About · Best Practices · President's Message · Board Members · Contribute to EUSA ]