Harbor Insights - April 2025
Article by Grant Adams
A Military Kid's Perspective
Hi! Since it's April, we at Safe Harbor Coronado thought it might be useful to reflect on the monthly theme that revolves around the Military Child. Military kids experience many hardships throughout their school years. We move around the country, constantly having to make new friends while losing the ones we've made. It's emotionally draining to build friendships only to leave them behind repeatedly. Every time you move, you might feel helpless or struggle to find the sense of security you once had at your old school. It's okay, many others have gone through this, too.
As humans, we crave routine and stability, which is why change can be so difficult. However, as we grow and develop, we realize that although moving is tough, it also makes us more resilient and independent. Moving frequently can improve social skills because it forces us to step out of our comfort zones. I strongly believe that friends shape who we are as individuals. Finding the right people is essential because they influence our growth and mindset. On the other hand, being around the wrong crowd can be harmful, both mentally and emotionally. Some people can be toxic or manipulative, so it's important to take a step back, reflect on who you want to be, and evaluate whether your current social circle supports your growth or hinders it. Spending time with new friends is a great way to make an easy transition to a new school. Going out to watch movies or hang around town are healthy ways to build friendships.
Another crucial aspect of being a military kid is maintaining mental health, which can be challenging. Moving frequently and severing connections with close friends can be painful. You spend so much time building relationships, only to leave and face the possibility of never seeing those friends again. Fortunately, modern technology makes it easier to stay in touch, easing the transition to a new school, even if just slightly. Meeting new people often comes with anxiety. Nerves take over, making you want to withdraw and avoid social interactions. Anxiety is fueled by feelings of unease and stress, which are common when facing new environments. A relatable example is starting a new school year everyone experiences that nervous anticipation of seeing both familiar and unfamiliar faces. Staying positive and being able to make it through the first week is always reliving, your social circle forms and your friends become clear.
Military kids experience lots of stress, being able to relieve this stress is very important. Ways I relieve stress is by sports and keeping myself busy. Some activities can be as simple as going on walks or even taking a shower, some of my friends take naps. It's simple to get rid of stress although it takes some time. Building good habits is crucial in transitioning into your new life. Every move is a fresh start so you can start anew and find new people who will be better for your future. Everyone is different, experiencing new personalities is fun and building new bonds (although hard) is fun. ⅓ of all service members move each year, approximately 500,000 military kids will move with them. There is a high likelihood that someone else who is a military kid will move to the same school you are. Making friends is much easier when you can bond over something. Moving is hard but once you're a few weeks in and have made some friends your life will become better.