When children hear about difficult things like immigration policies, families being separated, or people being forced to leave their homes, they may not fully understand what is happening. But they often notice the worry around them. Whether they hear it at school, from the news, or from adults in their lives, they need simple, honest, and steady support to help them feel safe and cared for. Here are five gentle ways to support young children who may be feeling scared, confused, or unsure about what they have heard:
1. Begin with connection
“I am here with you. We are together right now, and I will always do my best to take care of you.”
Children need to feel grounded in the moment and reminded that they are not alone. Even if you are feeling worried too, your steady and caring presence helps them feel secure. You can name your own feelings gently, like saying, Sometimes I feel scared too, but we take care of each other, and that helps. This teaches children that emotions are okay and that we can move through them together.
2. Keep it simple and honest
“Some people in the government are making rules that are unfair to certain families, especially when they or someone in their family was not born in this country. Many people are working hard to change those rules.”
Children can handle the truth when it is shared gently and clearly. If they already sense that something is wrong, saying “everything is fine” may make them feel more confused or alone. You do not need to explain everything. Just speak in a way that is honest and kind.
3. Talk about the helpers
“There are many people who are trying to help. Some are teachers. Some are lawyers. Some are neighbors. They are all working to keep families safe and together.”
Knowing that people are taking action can ease a child's fear and help them feel less powerless. Talking about the helpers reminds them that they are not invisible, and that many people care deeply about keeping families together.
4. Give them a way to help
“You can help too. Being kind, learning about other people, and standing up for what is fair are all good ways to help.”
Children often feel better when they can take action. You might invite them to draw a picture or write a kind message for someone in their school or community. You could read a story together about a family from a different place, or talk about ways to help everyone feel safe and welcome.
5. Let them come back to it
“In our family or classroom, we believe everyone should feel safe and welcome. You can always talk to me if something is confusing or scary.”
Children may return to these feelings more than once. Let them know it is always okay to ask questions and share what they are thinking about. Even when answers are hard to give, your willingness to listen helps them feel protected and supported.
If You Need to Make a Family Safety Plan
If your family or someone you know may be affected by immigration rules or at risk of being separated, it can help to talk gently and honestly with your child about what they can expect. Some families find it comforting to make a simple plan together.
This might include:
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Naming a trusted adult the child could stay with
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Writing down important phone numbers in a safe place
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Making sure the child knows who to call and where to go if something unexpected happens
These conversations can be short and calm. They are not about creating fear. They are about helping children feel more prepared, more connected, and more secure, even in uncertain times.
A Final Note to Caregivers:
You do not need to say everything perfectly. What matters most is that your child feels your care and your steady presence. When children know they are not facing their feelings alone, they build a sense of trust and safety that stays with them.
