Seasons of Absence: Supporting Loved Ones Through Absences
A support series for Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) loved ones and circle of care navigating deployment and work-related separations. Each session offers connection, practical tools, and simple activities to help make time apart more manageable.
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1700 - 1900
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Kingston Military Family Resource Centre
Seasons of Absence is a support series for members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) circle of care, including spouses, partners, family members, and loved ones navigating deployment and work-related separations.
Each session offers connection, practical tools, and simple activities to help make time apart more manageable, for you and your family.
When a CAF member is deployed or away for work, the people who care about them often carry emotional and logistical responsibilities at home. For some, that includes supporting children through change and uncertainty; for others, it means navigating the experience on their own. These sessions provide a space to connect with others who understand military life while learning practical ways to navigate deployment and time apart.
Whether you are preparing for a deployment, currently navigating an absence, or adjusting to a loved one’s return, you are welcome here, exactly as you are.
What You'll Gain
• Connect with others who have a CAF member in their life
• Learn practical ways to navigate deployment and separation
• Access helpful resources and supports
• Participate in resilience-based activities
• Leave with tools that help make time apart more manageable, for yourself and those you care for
Who This Is For (And Why It Matters)
This series is designed for anyone who has a CAF member in their life who is deployed or frequently away for work, including:
• Spouses and partners
• Family members or loved ones supporting someone in service
• Individuals preparing for an upcoming deployment
• Those currently managing time apart
• Those adjusting to reintegration after deployment
Deployment can feel isolating. Seasons of Absence creates a space where people connected to CAF members can meet others who understand military life, share experiences, and gain practical tools to help navigate the challenges of separation, whether you’re supporting a family or navigating it on your own.
Sometimes the most valuable support is simply knowing you’re not the only one going through it.
Attending Together as a Family
Children are encouraged to attend! We recognize that finding childcare can be a barrier, and we want to make it easier for families to access support.
Simple, age-appropriate activities will be available to help keep children engaged while caregivers participate in the sessions.
Whether you attend on your own or with your children, you are welcome here. Parents or guardians are required to remain onsite throughout the session.
Sessions at a Glance
Date | Time | Session Focus | What You'll Do | What Kids Will Do | Registration Details |
April 18, 2026 | 1330 – 1530 | Getting Organized for Deployment | Create a personalized Absence Binder to keep key contacts, documents, and important information in one place for easy access during your loved one’s absence. | Create a memory box filled with drawings, notes, and special items to help them stay connected with their CAF family member during time apart and share when they reunite. | Registration required |
July 15, 2026 | 1700 - 1900 | Reflection & Summer Connection | Explore journaling as a stress-relief and reflection tool. | Decorate a pillowcase with memories and positive thoughts to share with their CAF family member. Afterward, we’ll head outside to cool off and have fun at the splash pad, embracing both relaxation and play. The splash pad will be open for children to enjoy, so don’t forget to bring water-friendly clothing, a towel, sunscreen, water shoes, and everything they need for some fun in the sun! | Registration required |
October 17, 2026 | 1330 - 1530 | Wellness Through Every Season | Learn practical nutrition tips, connect with other military families, and explore wellness strategies during periods of separation. | Learn about self-care and mental wellness while creating their own calming sensory bottle. | Registration required, virtual option available |
January 16, 2027 | 1015 -1245 | Improbable Escapes: Wonderland | Connect with other military families, discover helpful resources, and enjoy board games in a relaxed, supportive environment. | Play board games, meet other military-connected children, and have fun with their family. | Registration required, only 30 spaces available
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