For women veterans, this season may mean walking a child into kindergarten, helping a teenager start high school, taking a college freshman to campus or returning to the classroom themselves. Some are parenting alone, co-parenting, raising grandchildren or balancing school schedules with work, caregiving and military responsibilities.

Air Force veteran Diane Darling pursued graduate education after her military service and has written about the experiences of women student veterans. She described their determination this way:

“As women Veterans, we set audacious goals and surmount them.”

When an older child leaves for college, a younger sibling may gain extra closet space but lose a trusted adviser, chauffeur or evening snack partner. The family pet may continue waiting by the bedroom door. Meanwhile, a parent can feel proud, relieved and unexpectedly sad, all before making it out of the campus parking lot.

Military and veteran families may be accustomed to change, but that does not mean every transition is easy. Planning skills help, but feelings do not always follow a schedule.

Before school begins, hold a short family check-in that includes everyone, not only the student. Talk about who will handle rides, chores and pet care. Ask younger siblings what they think will feel different. If someone is leaving for college, agree on a realistic schedule for calls or family group chats.

Pets need preparation, too. Gradually shift their walking and feeding times before the household schedule changes. If a pet shows ongoing signs of distress, speak with a veterinarian.

Whole-family transition checklist

☐ Ask each person what will change for them.
☐ Reassign chores, transportation and pet care.
☐ Create a sibling check-in plan.
☐ Keep pets’ meals and walks consistent.
☐ Make space for mixed emotions, including your own.

WVR Quick Reminder: Missing the old routine does not mean your family is not excited about what comes next.

Back-to-school is a family transition. When one person begins a new chapter, everyone may need a little time to find their new place in the story.