Dame Joanna Lumley, Jordan North and our Little Troopers Ambassador Thom Smith have joined some of our little troopers in a video recording of the Dandelion Poem. The poem poignantly captures the similarities between the life of a dandelion and a military child. Our video has been released today as part of our Month of the Military Child celebrations.

Joanna, Jordan and Thom’s parents served in the Armed Forces and they experienced first-hand the challenges and opportunities it presents.

Message for our Little Troopers

Reflecting on his life as a military child, Jordan North told our little troopers; “Being a kid with a parent serving in the military can be difficult, especially if you have friend whose parents have ‘normal jobs’, but I think this will make you stronger as a person. You will pick up life skills that you don’t even know you have developed. Like the ability to meet new people and get on with them. You’ll be able to adapt to new surroundings and be ready to take on new challenges easier than most of your peers. Just know that as much as you miss your Mum or Dad when they are away, I can promise you that they miss you a million times more. This will help you form a special bond and closeness that will last a lifetime.”

Louise, Founder of the charity, says: “One of the things we love about our work is showing our little troopers that they are part of an amazing community. Having Joanna, Jordan and Thom join in with our video is extra special. Their involvement shows the impact of this life never fades but that it doesn’t have to hold you back, either!”

The Dandelion poem video is just one way that we are celebrating the Month of the Military Child. Throughout the month we have lots of activities planned:

At Home

Families can get involved in dandelion-themed art, recipes, colouring-in sheets and dandelion playdough. As a special gift, we will be giving away a free seeded postcard featuring the Dandelion poem later in the month. We’ve also organised two free live online events during the month: Creative art base, and a Bake-a-long with Cookstars.

At School

For schools we have created a special Military Child pack with activities suitable for both primary and secondary pupils. Take part in a dandelion craft project, complete the superheroes workshop or do some mindful colouring-in. Older children can organise their own assembly all about military life and the Month of the Military Child.

Louise, adds “We sincerely hope that you love the video as much as we do. We’d love to hear about your Month of the Military Child celebrations, so please do tag us on social media.”

All of our Month of the Military Child resources can be found here.