Supporting Children During Traumatic Times

Resources for Parents and Caregivers

Wondering how to discuss traumatic events with children and those you care for? Unsure how to support children after their parent is deported or put in detention? Explore the resources below, provided by Dr. Katie Lingras, a mental health expert in the University of Minnesota's Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences and the Masonic Institute for the Developing Brain.

"So what makes the difference for kids in times like these? The good news is that it tends to be pretty ordinary resources that are already pretty close to children. They tend to be free or low cost. They tend to be common, and they’re often within arm’s reach of a child…You are one of those resources already, because you’ve made yourself available to be a community member and neighbor to a child.” -Hopewell Hodges, MA

Quick Tips:

What to Avoid:

• Don't minimize fears: Don't tell them "don't be afraid," as fear is a natural response.

• Don't give false promises: Be honest about the uncertainty while offering hope.

• Don't Repress Emotions: Let them know it's okay to be scared, sad, or angry. 

Instead:

• Look for signs kids might be stressed or picking up on tensions (explicit knowledge vs. implicit feeling of “something is wrong”)

• Model Calmness: Deep breaths, routines (meals, homework), and managing your own anxiety helps them feel secure. 

• Be Honest & Age-Appropriate: Acknowledge scary things are happening but explain in ways they understand (e.g., fairness for younger kids).

• Validate & Reassure: Say, "It's okay to be scared," and emphasize, "You are safe, we're together, and we'll protect you".

• Create a Safety Plan: Designate backup caregivers, practice what to do (e.g., don't open the door to strangers/uniforms), and know your rights. 

• Teach Their Rights: Instruct kids to stay calm, say nothing to agents (names, addresses), record interactions if possible, and tell you immediately.

• Build Empathy & Action: Teach kindness, highlight immigrants' contributions, and find positive ways to support your community. 

For more detail and additional tips, please explore the links below.