Preparing Families for Immigration Enforcement Actions:
We have collected some suggestions for supporting families in preparation for possible immigration enforcement. These include updating emergency contacts, creating a family safety plan, and preparing documents. Let us know if you have more ideas to add to the list!
Addressing Questions About Immigration Enforcement and Schools
Here is another great resource from Colorin Colorado. This 2025 resource includes an update on sensitive location guidance in addition to tips to support families and students.
Speaking to Students
Talking to Students and Families About Increased Immigration Enforcement:
To help students feel less stressed, encourage families to talk openly with their children about what’s happening. Let them know that kids are likely hearing about these issues from others, and it’s important for them to talk with their caregivers. This way, they can get the right information and ask any questions they have. In this post we offer some guidelines for talking to children at various developmental levels about immigration enforcement actions. The post is currently out for translation and will soon be available in Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Arabic.
11 Strategies Schools Can Use to Support Students After an Immigration Raid:
This 2019 resource shares how schools can support students and families impacted by an immigration raid. “When an immigration raid happens in the local community, there are a few important things that schools can do to support students impacted by the raid. Keep in mind that, in some cases, these students are reunited with their family members who were arrested, but in others, the adults are detained or deported. Many families may undergo upheaval, loss of income, or periods of great stress and uncertainty.”
HOW TO TALK TO A CHILD WORRIED ABOUT DEPORTATION:
This resource describes common problems we may see in children who are experiencing stress and how parents can talk to their children to reduce worry. It is available in Spanish as well.
Basic Information on Immigrant Rights Manual (7 languages):
Basic information on immigrant rights under US law during immigration proceedings or if they are arrested and detained by the Dept of Homeland Security from National Immigrant Justice Center.
How to Talk to a Child Worried About Deportation:
A one-sheet created by Florida State University Center for Child Stress & Health. Walks through common problems seen in children during stressful times and how parents can help their worried children.
Books & Resources
I’m Your Neighbor Books is a nonprofit in Maine. They have compiled a list of children’s books that discuss deportation. You can see the list here: Books with Deportation – I’m Your Neighbor Books
Know Your Rights & Family Preparation Video.
Video for children to talk to parents to prepare:
English
Spanish
Nick New: Kids, Immigration, and Equality:
For elementary age kids to discuss immigration.
