Each April, the Department of War recognizes the Month of the Military Child, a time dedicated to honoring the extraordinary resilience, courage and quiet strength of the youngest members of our military Families. The Army explicitly recognizes that While Soldiers proudly wear the uniform and answer the call to defend the nation, their children serve in their own way as well. April provides an opportunity for leaders, organizations and communities across the Army to pause and recognize the sacrifices and contributions made by these remarkable young individuals.
For military children and youth, life is often defined by change. Permanent change-of-station moves are a routine part of military life, as is parental separation during deployments and training. According to a 2025 RAND Health report, this "can directly or indirectly affect children's mental health and exacerbate an already stressful time in their development.”
While these challenges are significant, military children and youth are supported by a network of programs that help them grow, connect and thrive. One of the Army’s most important support systems is Child, Youth and School Services, which provides programs, services, education and care for children and youth from 6 weeks through age 18.
According to Tamra De Benedetto, a program management analyst with CYS, the program plays a vital role in supporting military Families throughout their journey.
“Army CYS is designed to provide safe, consistent and high-quality programs and care for children and youth across every installation,” De Benedetto said. “No matter where a Family moves, they can expect a strong foundation of care, opportunities and support for their children and youth.”
De Benedetto explains that throughout the year, CYS programs provide a wide range of services and opportunities to support children and youth at every stage of development. Child Development Centers provide care for children 6 weeks of age through pre-kindergarten, including a specialized pre-K program called Strong Beginnings designed to help prepare 4-year-olds for success in kindergarten. Family Child Care homes offer another option for Families, providing care for children ages 4 weeks through 12 years in a home-based environment. For Families who live far from a military installation or who may be on an extended waitlist, Community Based Child Care provides additional options to make sure children can still receive quality care.
School Age Centers support Families with children in kindergarten through fifth grade by offering before- and after-school care, as well as programming during school-out days. In some locations, Families can also access hourly care and part-time care that provide additional flexibility to meet varying schedules.
For older kids, Youth Centers offer a wide variety of activities in an open recreation environment designed for ages 12 through 18. De Benedetto notes that these centers provide opportunities for leadership development, social engagement and recreational programming that help youth stay active and connected within their installation community.
CYS programs also support physical activity and teamwork through Youth Sports, which offers a variety of team sports and skill-building opportunities for children and youth ages 3 through 18.
De Benedetto emphasizes that behind every CYS program is a team of dedicated professionals committed to serving military children and youth.
“Our staff understand the unique experiences military children and youth face,” De Benedetto said. “They take pride in creating environments where children and youth feel safe, supported and are encouraged to grow.”
De Benedetto emphasizes that these dedicated professionals are trained and skilled, with ongoing annual requirements that help them stay current on best practices and emerging trends to ensure the highest level of care. This commitment helps military children and youth not only navigate the challenges of military life but also benefit from the many opportunities it provides. Growing up in a military Family often means gaining lifelong friendships, experiencing different cultures and developing a strong sense of community and service.
This April, take a moment to recognize the heroes growing up within our ranks: our military children and youth.
“Our staff understand the unique experiences military children and youth face,” De Benedetto said. “They take pride in creating environments where children and youth feel safe, supported and are encouraged to grow.”
These dedicated professionals are trained and skilled, with ongoing annual requirements that help them stay current on best practices and emerging trends to ensure the highest level of care. This commitment helps military children and youth not only navigate the challenges of military life but also benefit from the many opportunities it provides. Growing up in a military Family often means gaining lifelong friendships, experiencing different cultures and developing a strong sense of community and service.
As the Army observes the Month of the Military Child, it is important to recognize not only the sacrifices these children and youth make, but also the strength they display every day.
By honoring the Month of the Military Child, the Army reaffirms its commitment to supporting military Families and making sure every child who serves alongside their parent feels seen, valued and celebrated. Their courage may come in small packages, but it stands tall within the Army community.
This April, take a moment to recognize the heroes growing up within our ranks: our military children and youth.
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