It also depends on where he is going to basic. If he is going to an all male basic- benning or sill. Things will be a lot different than going to leonard wood or jackson( they are both co-ed) I know that they will get at least one phone call during reception (they will be issued all their uniforms and gear there) and then one phone call (within 72hrs) when they ship to their unit for training. I know that they were, maybe still are doing some testing with units at basic where they get some "extra" stuff, like going to the shopette, or use of their cell phone on sunday for xxx amount of time. during the first 3 weeks, all bets are off, most units get NO privelages, trying to get unit cohesion and get new recruits to think the army way (when told to do something, don't stop and ask why, just do it) as basic moves into blue and white phase, they will get less restriction and more privelages. another poster was correct, family day is usualy thursday and graduation is friday. your son should be able to tell you what day graduation will be. he may ship early, or late- all depends on how fast or slow they in-process and get thru medical, dental and everywhere else. your son will be asked who he wants invites sent to graduation (don't know if they still do this) and you should get a letter informing you about family day and what is expected of your son. you will not be able to take them off post on family day. and depending on when he goes to AIT (advanced individual training) he should be able to be free the rest of graduation day. most soldiers go to their AIT on sat and everyone will HAVE to be there friday night for bed check.
if you have anyother questions, ask away. I went thru basic at jackson. would much rather go thru in the winter than the summer, just too darn hot! I went thru fort sam (im a medic) in the summer- very hot and humid to me!