SIOUX FALLS, S.D. - The South Dakota National Guard Child and Youth Program held a Princess and Super Hero Day Camp April 7 at the National Guard Armory in Sioux Falls. The event is part of celebrations for the Month of the Military Child.
The Month of the Military Child is celebrated annually in April to acknowledge the sacrifices and challenges kids of military members face.
According to the South Dakota National Guard Child and Youth Program, there are over 3,900 military youth affiliated with the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard.
"Our military youth are impacted daily, whether their service member is home, deployed, at drill, or away attending training or school," said Taryn Broomfield, South Dakota National Guard Child and Youth Program lead coordinator.
Children attending donned princess and super hero costumes at the day camp where they participated in various activities.
Those wearing princess costumes were treated to a "royal treatment" that included getting their hair, make up and nails done. Super heroes enjoyed their time going through an obstacle course testing their "super hero" skills. Six randomly selected children were able to win bicycles for attending the event.
"It's a great event for children to meet other military kids and its a fun event for them." said Senior Master Sgt. Dave Adams, 114th Communication Squadron communication plans and resources technician.
As part of the event, the children were also given certificates acknowledging all the challenges they face as a military child.
"Month of the Military Child is an opportunity to celebrate and thank the military children for their service." said Broomfield.
The South Dakota National Guard Child and Youth Program's goal is to support the social, emotional, and academic needs of military children and youth throughout the state. The program also provides resources and information to military youth and to their families and communities, as well as partners with other local and national organizations that serve youth as well.