Deployment: It's Not A Game

Deployment: It's Not A Game

“Deployment: It’s not a game” was created by Iowa’s Speak Out for Military Kids (SOMK) team to create awareness about the deployment cycle. Six team members who created the board game were military kids who had experienced deployment. Two of those 6 military kids had fathers deployed when the team created the game. 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. “Good” cards and “bad” cards are based on actual events in the lives of the military kids who are part of the SOMK team. 

Wanna play?  Follow this link to get Deployment: It's Not A Game

Research demonstrates that resilient military kids have a network of support. “Deployment: It’s not a game” has been used in public and school settings with military and non-military kids and adults. As players move through the game, it serves as a tool to get them to think and talk about the impact of deployment on military kids and families. 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. 

Military kids who play the game can talk about other incidences and issues they have personally faced during deployment. Teachers and counselors can help military kids strengthen their problem solving skills and communication skills.

Production of “Deployment: It’s not a game” was funded by a generous donation from the American Legion Riders Post #731 of Iowa.