OMK Resources for Parents

 

OMK Reading Collection  Operation Military Kids
The OMK Reading Collection is designed to foster resiliency in your military kid. The books, selected for and by military kids, help them cope with separation issues, develop problem-solving skills, learn about other cultures and geographical regions, and build pride for their Military Family members. Accompanying the books are program materials and activities developed by a youth librarian, a middle school media specialist, and a child development specialist that further expand the use of the reading materials.  Families can check out the books from your Family Assistance Centers (FAC).  School communities may check out the OMK reading collection through the Area Education Agency that serves their area.


Mobilization (MOB) Packets
Designed by military kids, MOB packets contain tips for military kids, parents, friends, and teachers.  Included in the MOB packets are activity books designed around the deployment cycle and other resources to support military kids while their family members are deployed.  Funded by the American Legion of Iowa Foundation.


Deployment: It’s not a game
Created by Iowa’s Speak Out for Military Kids (SOMK) team to create awareness about the deployment cycle, the game highlights the rollercoaster of emotions and family life for military kids as game players roll the dice and move from mobilization to homecoming.  Military Families are encouraged to reflect on thier deployment expereinces or discuss upcoming deployments.  Civilian players are encouraged to reflect on the issues military kids face during deployment, to discuss how they might act in similar situations, and to discuss how their school, community, or organization might develop a plan to support military kids and families experiencing deployment. 

 

Operation Give a Hug Dolls
Soft sculptured dolls with a vinyl pocket on the face for a photo insert provide visual and tactile support for Iowa’s younger military kids who are missing a parent.


Mr. Poe and Friends Discuss Family Reunion After Deployment
A video toolkit designed to develop resiliency and healthy coping mechanisms in children 6 – 11 years in age and their families.  Includes a 30 minute DVD, welcome letter explaining how to use the DVD, facilitator’s guide with suggested discussion questions, informational handouts.  U.S. Army Medical Command Center & School in partnership with the American Academy of Pediatrics.


Talk, Listen, Connect: Deployments, Homecomings, Changes
Sesame Street Workshop presents a bilingual educational outreach initiative designed for Military Families and their young children to share.  Contains two DVDs, a magazine for parents and caregivers, and a children’s activity poster.


Military Youth Coping with Separation: When Family Members Deploy
A DVD developed by military pediatricians and adolescent medicine specialists to help military youth understand that they are not alone as they experience family separation.  The DVD provides tools for young people to use to begin to understand and cope in healthy ways with their feelings and emotions related to a military deployment.

 

 

Contact Us

 

Victoria Schmidt  

OMK Program Director  

ISU Extension

PO Box 47  

Thompson, IA  50478  

641-584-2261 

vschmidt@iastate.edu

 

 

 

National Operation Military Kids

National Operation Military Kids

 

 

 

Calendar of Events

Calendar of Events

 

Other Parent Resources