Are you new to the Army family or new to working with the military? The Army recognizes transitioning into the military in any capacity can be a difficult, not only for the Soldier but spouses and children as well. Therefore, in 1993 the Army designed a special program to assist Soldiers, families and civilians in a successful transition. . The Army Family Team Building program empowers individuals through maximizing their personal growth and professional development through specialized training, this in turn transforms the military community into a resilient and strong foundation to meet today's military mission.
"The Army Family Team Building Program, (also known as AFTB) offers classes in person or on line to Soldiers, spouses and civilians to help them integrate into the Army community," said Greg Mason, Dugway's Army Community Service director.
This course offers offer basic information about Army ranks, traditions, Family readiness, and how to adapt to Army life.
"It can really help Soldiers and their families build resiliency in meeting the challenges that can come when with raising families with frequent reassignments," Mason added.
There is a wide variety of classes with three course levels, and though this is an abbreviated explanation of the overall Army Family Team Building (AFTB) program, it may assist in understanding what kind of knowledge and skills you will be yours upon completing the courses.
Level 1 --Military Knowledge
This is the heart of the AFTB Program. It is designed for family members new to the military. It provides basic "survival skills" that can assist newcomers in adapting to a military environment. Classes include instruction in military acronyms, the Chain of Command, military benefits, entitlements and expectations. Its nickname is "Army 101" and if you're new this program will build confidence.
Of real interest to many is the section on Army traditions, customs, courtesies and protocol. It can help students to feel comfortable with the social and official aspects of the military lifestyle.
The course also discusses the impact the mission has on family life and how to support children when changing schools often due to their parent's assignments.
Level 2 --Personal Growth and Resiliency
Level 2 is designed for individuals in the military community and who want to develop leadership skills for their personal development and will require help in how to communicate effectively with those who are sharing the similar experiences.
There is also a class on Family Readiness Groups and the Deployment Cycle, which can introduce spouses to a community willing to help family members during deployment cycles.
This level also has sections on personal time management, stress management and enhancing personal relationships. There is also a segment on exploring personality traits.
Finally, there is a course on the Volunteer Experience, which examines the importance of volunteerism within military and civilian communities as well as why people choose the benefits of volunteering.
Level 3 --Leadership Development
Level 3 focuses on building cohesive teams by focusing on positive attitudes and building commitment within the team structure. It will add insight to how team dynamics impact the success of a unit and assist in fostering management skills.
Length for most sections in the three levels is between 30 minutes to one hour, Mason said.
Using the AFTB program can provide a much broader understanding for Soldiers and their spouses about their roles in the military unit and as community members. It comes highly recommended.
For more information contact Greg Mason, Director, Army Community Service at
(435) 831-2834 or gregory.a.mason8.civ@army.mil
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