This booklet from the Children of Incarcerated Parents Network provides guidance for caregivers on explaining jails and prisons to children with an incarcerated mother or father. It covers the child’s feelings, common questions kids ask, letter writing tips for incarcerated parents, visiting tips, and the reentry process. It emphasizes tailoring explanations to the child’s age and not placing blame. Resources listed include support groups, mentoring programs, legal services, and books for children dealing with their mum or dad’s incarceration. The guide aims to help caregivers have honest, age-appropriate conversations to help children cope with the challenges of having a parent imprisoned.
CONTENTS:
Introduction
About Families
Glossary of Terms
Notes for Children
Looking for Support
Ten Tips for Kinship Caregivers of Children of Incarcerated Parents
Common Questions Kids Ask
Mom or dad: it’s important to write letters to your child
Tips for visiting parents in prison
Stages of Re-Entry for Children of a Parent Returning from Prison
Risk Factors for Children with Incarcerated Parents
This is Hard Work! What About Me?
Children of Incarcerated Parent “A Bill of Rights”
Resources for Children of Incarcerated Parents, Their Caregivers & Professionals Who
Work With Them
FREE PDF DOWNLOAD OF HOW TO EXPLAIN JAILS AND PRISONS TO CHILDREN (CAREGIVERS’ GUIDE)
