KANDAHAR AIRFIELD, Afghanistan -- Redeployment is a joyful time, there is no doubt about that, but it can also be a time of stress and uncertainty, especially for Airmen with families.
Below is advice to help combat the reunion stress and uncertainty:
· Take time to listen and talk to your loved ones. Communication is the basis of a healthy, growing relationship.
· Make separate time for each child and for your spouse. Have a true "family reunion" before taking time alone with your spouse.
· Support the good things your family has done. Show pleasure and interest in how your family has grown. Avoid criticism of the things you would have done differently.
· Don't change systems that have been working well. If your spouse has been doing the checkbook or a teen doing some of the cooking don't demand an immediate return to the way things were before.
· Go easy on the discipline. Don't try to "whip things into shape." Take some time to understand how your family has changed during separation.
· Manage your money carefully. It's exciting to suddenly have money and places to spend it, but spending without planning usually causes trouble later. Don't go out and buy that new car on impulse.
· Do not overdo the reunion parties. The alcohol is not going anywhere, so you don't need to drink it all in one weekend.