Turning relocations into a ‘Heroes Journey’ for kids

Peter Mallett
Staff Writer

Halifax Military Police members converse with Peri during the Halifax Family event on June 24.

Moving to a new town can be stressful for military families and their children, but superheroes Bobbi and Peri are coming to the rescue.

This animated dynamic duo is the star of a new children’s activity book designed to ease the burden of service-related relocation. It is part of the Hero In Training Program, a new initiative by Personnel Support Programs (PSP).

“The relocation process can disrupt established support systems, uproot children from schools and social circles and introduce unfamiliar environments leading to feelings of isolation and uncertainty,” says Isabelle Werlen, National Recreation Manager of Canadian Forces Morale and Welfare Services (CFMWS). 

Werlen says relocations and their associated uncertainty and anxiety impact the emotional well-being of both adults and children. As such, the team harnessed research, child development expertise and insight from experienced partners to create a program that addresses the unique challenges of relocations.

Peri meets some children during the Halifax Family event on June 24.

The Hero in Training Program also includes Children’s Programming Elements, a collaboration with PSP staff at bases and wings nationwide and internationally, to incorporate unique elements into their summer programming. They may include themed workshops, group discussions and team-building exercises designed to boost children’s confidence and foster a sense of camaraderie.

Also, in-person Character Interactions allow children and their parents to meet Bobbi and Peri in person or virtually with activities such as live events and storytelling sessions.

Meet Bobbi and Peri

The animated character Peri is a muscle-bound beaver named after the military’s Canadian Forces Physical Education and Recreation Branch (PERI). Peri’s partner Bobbi is a quick and agile Lynx that uses two prosthetic legs to lead children on their adventures.

The activity book is designed to entertain children and help pass the time during long car rides or waits at the airport and provides an immediate travel-boredom solution, says Werlen. But its aims are much bigger than that.

“The book helps instill a sense of pride and resilience in military children before and after the move,” Werlen says. “Designed for children ages 6-8, the activity book provides age-specific activities and resources that promote personal growth and understanding of their family’s service.”

Bobbi and Peri, the animated characters of the Hero in Training Program.

The book comprises 15 missions sorted into categories: preparing for the move, travelling to a new location, checking in with thoughts and feelings, preparing to share and make new friends, and arriving and settling into a new home. When each mission is completed, correct answers can be found by scanning a QR code on page 3 of the booklet so children can learn their Hero Skills Score. All the children need to participate is a pen, colouring crayons and a tablet to access online resources.

‘Building Resiliency’

Funding for the Heroes in Training Program was received in 2021-2022. To maximize the use of funds, PSP and CFMWS collaborated with Military Family Services (MFS) to share the funding and develop evidence-based relocation resources for military families.

“This innovative program reflects our dedication to providing holistic support by fostering resilience, unity and a positive outlook,” says Ben Ouellette, Vice President of PSP Operations. “The Hero in Training program embodies our core values and signifies our continuous efforts to enhance the well-being of our military community.”

The program and activity book were piloted over the 2022 posting season and implemented nationally this year.

Carmen Wong, a military spouse based at CFB Petawawa, says the Hero in Training Program is a tremendous asset for military families and addresses a critical need by providing age-appropriate resources.

“This program is a wonderful initiative that recognizes the sacrifices our families make and provides them with the tools they need to thrive,” she said.

To obtain a printed copy of the Hero In Training Program information, visit your local PSP office or download a copy  at cfmws.ca/support-services/moving-housing/relocation-resources-for-children