#70 - Explaining Service Life to Kids: Hayley Boswell (Defence Kidz) on Military Family Resilience

Hayley Boswell may not have served in the military, but her impact on the lives of hundreds of ADF members and their families is profound, all through her work as a children's author and advocate! As a defense spouse and mother to a child with special needs, Hayley grappled with the intense challenge of explaining the significance of her husband's 24-year naval career and his extended absences to their daughters. This podcast episode is born out of that relatable struggle—and the creative solution that followed. Defence Kidz was originally created in the middle of the night, driven by a wave of anxiety, as Hayley searched for Australian-specific resources that simply didn't exist. Her first book, "My Dad's in the Australian Navy," was meant only for her own daughter but immediately resonated with the wider defense community. Since then, Defence Kidz has sold over 17,000 copies across all services and launched into advocacy, graphic novels, and merchandise. Hayley dials in to chat with Luke and RT about the journey: The Emotional Cost of Service: Hayley shares the reality of moving their family from Adelaide to Sydney during COVID-19 to keep her family unit intact, and the dual transition she and her children went through when her partner discharged. She highlights the often-unspoken "transition" that spouses and children must also navigate. A Crucial Resource: Hear how Hayley simplified the complex concept of military duty—from rescuing turtles and sharks to protecting Australia—into stories that young children can grasp, fostering a sense of pride and connection. From Local to National Impact: Hayley details the incredible support and collaboration she has found across state governments, federal agencies (like the veteran well-being centers), and even high-level ADF command, demonstrating a powerful, modern shift in family support. The Future is Bright: Learn about the upcoming launch of a graphic novel for older kids and the plan to turn the Defense Kidz characters into a cartoon series, ensuring this critical support reaches defense children wherever they are. Anzac Day Attendance: Hayley makes a passionate plea for families to bring their children to commemorative services, arguing it's vital for connecting future generations to the meaning of service and normalizing emotional expression. This is a must-watch for ADF families seeking practical tools, and for anyone who wants to understand the immense strength and resilience of those supporting our service members on the home front. Find Hayley and Defence Kidz using the resources below: Books: http://www.defencekidz.com.au/ T-Shirts: https://cheekylittleshop.com.au/ Community: http://www.facebook.com/defencekidz Navy Families Handbook: [https://www.navy.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/ANP 5111-Navy Families Handbook LOW RES.pdf](https://www.navy.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/ANP 5111-Navy Families Handbook LOW RES.pdf) Defence Member Family Support Handbook: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/897828592/ Video Timestamps: 00:00:13 - Introduction: The Impact of Service on ADF Families 00:01:47 - Background: Growing up in South Australia & Finding Her Naval Partner 00:08:00 - Commitment: Locked Down the Partner (Pregnant in Two Months) 00:08:17 - Denial: Realizing the Rock-and-Roll of the Posting Cycle 00:09:09 - Tragedy: Navigating a Veteran Suicide and Support from Command 00:10:00 - The Pivot: Moving to Sydney During COVID for Family Stability & Support 00:14:04 - The Dual Transition: Why Spouses and Children "Transition" Too 00:14:40 - The Sacrifice: The Cost of Disruption vs. Career Growth 00:18:27 - Soft Landing: The Importance of Chain of Command Support 00:20:50 - Advocacy: Navy's New Families Book & The Need for Specific Resources 00:21:48 - The Origin Story: Anxiety in the Night & Creating the First Book 00:24:52 - Sales Success: Over 17,000 Books Sold & The Momentum Grows 00:27:28 - National Impact: Support from Government, DVA & Non-Government Organizations 00:30:15 - Story Arc: Explaining Naval Service to a Child (Rescuing Turtles & Sharks) 00:31:07 - Future Plans: Graphic Novel, T-Shirts, and a Cartoon Series 00:41:19 - Anzac Day Plea: Bringing Children to Services & Normalizing Crying 00:44:20 - Axon Donation Pledge: Supporting Defence Kidz's Mission