To help you deal with challenges in day-to-day family life as a loved one of a law enforcement professional, there three essential skills to practice.
Adaptability
Family life of a public safety professional is unique. Time together is unpredictable and can be brief due to the nature of the job. Special events and life moments may be missed or interrupted. The ability to adapt to schedule changes can decrease the pressures of life and feeling overwhelmed. Aim for resiliency and be flexible with schedules and planning.
Attitude
Your mindset can be most essential yet challenging to shift. Strive to find the silver lining especially when children are involved. If that gets difficult, the next best thing is to deescalate your child by helping them understand why their parent can’t make it to an event. Its okay to share with your child that their other parent is equally frustrated that they can’t be with the family. You’ll want to avoid venting or complaining about a schedule change in the presence of your children as this sets the tone.
Communication
Effective communication among family members is important in ensuring everyone feels supported. If you have preferences for your spouses work schedule, try finding a way to compromise. In addition safety at home should be discussed. If you have firearms and other law enforcement gear in the home, make it clear to children that this is not to be touched. Practice safely storing these items and create safety rules in the home.
Source:
Lexipol. The Go-Bag: 3 Essential Elements for Successful Law Enforcement Family Life - https://www.lexipol.com/resources/blog/the-go-bag-3-essential-elements-for-successful-law-enforcement-family-life
