Welcome to a new series on the Emerge Blog called “Tough Conversations” where members of the Emerge team share support and insight into ways to approach tougher topics with kids. We want to encourage open and honest conversation in families, and help you build the tools to feel confident doing so.
With the escalation in ICE activity across the country, it is likely that your child has seen things on social media or they are having conversations about it at school. Here are some recommendations when navigating conversations about ICE with your child:
Tip #1: Co-regulate with your child.
Your child may be feeling scared, anxious, or confused about what is happening. You may also be feeling these emotions, but regulating your own emotions and demonstrating a calm presence will help your child to regulate and improve their sense of safety. Validate your child’s feelings and re-assure them that they are safe with you.
Tip #2: Educate yourself and your child.
Keep up with local and national grassroots organizations and independent media to stay informed. You can then decide what information feels right to share with your child. It is important to be honest and clear, but not overwhelming.
Tip #3: Have a Plan.
If your family may be impacted by local ICE presence and your child is old enough, come up with a plan and make sure your child understands it. For example: Who do they contact in case of an emergency? Where are important documents located?
Tip #4: If your child is still feeling anxious…
offer fun activities to help them regulate (crafts or movement activities are often helpful). Giving kids opportunities to make decisions helps them to feel in control. You can also consider finding ways to support your local community.
When ICE was present in our community last year, there were many calls for help to deliver groceries to families who could not leave their home, to make whistle kits to alert people of ICE presence, and other opportunities.
Do you know anyone you may be able to support directly? What other ways can you engage with your local community to be prepared when ICE returns?
Tip #5: Repeat the Process as Needed
Your child may want to continue the conversation, or they may forget for a while and come back to it at a later time. This is normal as they are processing what is going on. Continue to offer your support and help them regulate as needed.
Looking for additional support?
If you want more advice tailored to the needs of your child, please reach out to your Emerge therapist. We are happy to support you and your child!
Did you know you can help defund ICE?
As of today, the Homeland Security appropriations bill (which includes CBP, ICE, and FEMA) has not passed the House or Senate. The deadline is January 31st.
How to help:
- Identify your Senator and State Representatives. You can use: https://5calls.org/
- Call your Senator and State Reps. Here is a sample script:
“Hi, my name is [name] and I’m a constituent from [city, ZIP].
I’m calling to urge [Rep/Sen name] to oppose any appropriations bill for the Department of Homeland Security that maintains any funding for ICE.
Thank you for your time and consideration.”
If leaving a voicemail: Please leave your full street address to ensure your call is tallied.
Blog by Amy Munekata, M.S., CCC-SLP