Smartphone apps have made life easier for many people, and that includes military families. The latest program comes from somewhat of an unlikely source. Sesame Street recently released its military families app that comes equipped with a number of resources designed to help parents assist their children through sometimes-difficult transitions of military life.
The program covers a wide range of topics including deployment of a parent as well as their return from overseas, both of which can cause a great deal of stress for youngsters and adults alike. The app, which is available for the iPhone and Android, highlights the importance of addressing the mental well-being of the youngest members of military families.
Numerous studies have shown that deployment of a family member can have a significant impact on children. In fact, a 2010 study that focused on children between 3 and 8 found youngsters with a parent deployed were about 11 percent more likely to visit a clinic due to a mental health issue.
"Military deployment doesn't just affect the soldier, but it's the family back home," Dr. Gregory Gorman told ABC News. "Not just the spouse but children, too."