The incarceration of a loved one can be very overwhelming for both children and caregivers. It can bring about big changes and transitions. You can comfort your children and guide them through these tough moments in simple, everyday ways. With your love and support, they can get through anything that comes their way. Here are some tools to help you with the changes your children are experiencing. Media and Downloads Printable Downloads For Caregivers: Little Children, Big Challenges: Incarceration Storybook: In My Family Tips for Incarcerated Parents: Black and White Tips for Parents and Caregivers Activities How Am I Feeling? My Super Stars My Morning Routine! Build Security In the morning, let your child know some of the things that will happen throughout the day. For example, “Grandma will pick you up from school. Then you'll go to the park, and later we’ll all have dinner together.” Share Your Heart Give your child a paper heart to keep in her pocket. You might say, “This is to remind you that I love you and will always be there for you.” Express Emotions Take time each day to check in with your child and ask, “How are you feeling?” Remember to let your child know that it's okay to have big feelings, no matter what they are. Answer Honestly When explaining where an incarcerated parent is, you can say, “Daddy is in a place called prison (or jail) for a while. Grown-ups sometimes go to prison when they break a rule called a law.” Stay Connected Phone calls are a great way to reach out. Help your child think of something she’d like to tell her incarcerated parent, and give her a photo of her parent to hold during the call. Prepare Together Before you visit your incarcerated loved one, let your child know some of the things she can expect to happen. For instance, “We won’t be able to sit in the same room with Mommy, but we can see her through a window and read a story together.” Take Care of Yourself Caring for yourself helps you care for your child. At least once a day, do something you enjoy or find relaxing. Previous Next
Build Security In the morning, let your child know some of the things that will happen throughout the day. For example, “Grandma will pick you up from school. Then you'll go to the park, and later we’ll all have dinner together.” Share Your Heart Give your child a paper heart to keep in her pocket. You might say, “This is to remind you that I love you and will always be there for you.” Express Emotions Take time each day to check in with your child and ask, “How are you feeling?” Remember to let your child know that it's okay to have big feelings, no matter what they are. Answer Honestly When explaining where an incarcerated parent is, you can say, “Daddy is in a place called prison (or jail) for a while. Grown-ups sometimes go to prison when they break a rule called a law.” Stay Connected Phone calls are a great way to reach out. Help your child think of something she’d like to tell her incarcerated parent, and give her a photo of her parent to hold during the call. Prepare Together Before you visit your incarcerated loved one, let your child know some of the things she can expect to happen. For instance, “We won’t be able to sit in the same room with Mommy, but we can see her through a window and read a story together.” Take Care of Yourself Caring for yourself helps you care for your child. At least once a day, do something you enjoy or find relaxing. Previous Next