Here’s the truth—toddlers have no clue what “next weekend” means, but they absolutely know when someone feels close…or missing. For military families with young kids, staying connected through long hours, trainings, or deployments isn’t about calendar dates—it’s about sensory familiarity, consistent routines, and playful moments that say, “I’m still here.”

The good news? You don’t need Pinterest-level crafts or a perfect schedule. A few small, intentional practices—plus maybe a kiss jar and daily letters—can help little ones feel safe, loved, and emotionally anchored, even when a parent is far away.

Ideas for Staying Connected:

• Video Messages & Bedtime Recordings: Have the working parent record themselves reading a favorite bedtime story or singing a lullaby. Play it as part of the nightly wind-down so their voice becomes part of your child’s routine.
• Kiss Jars or Hug Countdowns: Fill a jar with Hershey’s Kisses or paper hearts—one for each day until the next call, visit, or day off. Toddlers love the tangible countdown (and the chocolate doesn’t hurt either).
• Laminated Photo Boards: Print out photos of the service member doing everyday things—eating breakfast, brushing teeth, reading a book—and create a visual routine board so they remain a “daily presence,” even from afar.
• Daddy/Mommy Dolls: Order a soft doll with the service member’s face printed on it. Kids can hug it, carry it around, and even bring it along on adventures to “share” their day. Check with your local Family Readiness Centers as they sometimes have vouchers for these.
• Daily “Letters”: Let your child draw or scribble something each day. Collect them in a folder, make a mail bundle, or display them as “kid art” to be shared with the away parent later.

Here’s what really matters: your toddler might not understand time, but they understand love. They recognize who makes them feel safe and seen. These small rituals—whether it’s a bedtime video or a paper heart countdown—aren’t just cute ideas. They’re powerful tools for building emotional connection and security.

Even if half the kisses disappear early or the daddy doll ends up in the dog’s mouth, your child will remember the effort behind it all. Keep it simple. Keep it consistent, because in this season of life, routine is reassurance—and love is louder than distance. 

Looking for ways to stay connected as your little one grows?  Check out the upcoming article in of this Bridging the Gap series, for practical, playful ways to support connection with elementary-aged kids—because the need for closeness doesn’t disappear when they start reading chapter books and launching dramatic bedtime negotiations like tiny sleep-lawyers.

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