When parents are arrested or put in jail or prison, the children are often scared, confused, and upset. This is not a rare event. In 1999, one out of 50 minor children in the US had a parent in state or federal prison, but people don t talk about it because it is very personal information. This booklet was written to help explain to children and families what it might be like to have a mother, father, or other close family member who is incarcerated. This booklet is designed to help children and families understand and cope with some of the stress they may experience when a parent goes to jail or prison.
Most children have lots of questions.
They often have the wrong idea about what jails and prisons are like. To reassure them, we have put together some questions and answers to help them tell the difference between myths and facts. This booklet promotes open and honest communication between children and adults. Ideally, even children old enough to read it on their own will read it with their caregiver. Children too young to read can also benefit if an adult talks with them about the topics in this booklet.