It’s important for your child to feel a sense of belonging while you are serving your country in the military.
Service men and women can take advantage of many different types of organizations to build relationships and a sense of belong, any of which can be a positive influence in military parenting.
But perhaps one of the most important decisions you will make as a military parent concerns the religious upbringing of your child. Studies show that children who identify with a specific religious group feel more secure and stable than those whose parents do not have any specific religious affiliation.
So give this some serious thought as you raise your children. If your parents had a religious affiliation, do you want to follow them? Or do you feel the need to explore other religions? Even if you are an agnostic, remember that your children are born with a sense of wonder and awe at the world around them — talk to one of your base chaplains to find a religious organization that can serve both your needs as an adult and your children’s innocent desires.