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What Are Effective Supports for Homelessness in Children?
Homelessness/ unhoused status is a circumstance that affects millions around the world, and its impact on children has been documented. Understanding homelessness in children and families, ways parents and professionals can help, and the role of therapy can be crucial in mitigating its effects and supporting those in need.
Quick Look

The signs and symptoms of homelessness in children can manifest across academic, emotional, behavioral, and physical domains, deeply affecting their development and well-being. Recognizing these signs is the first step in providing the necessary support. Through mindful parenting and therapeutic intervention, it is possible to mitigate the adverse effects of homelessness. Ensuring that children and their families have access to the resources and support systems they need is crucial in helping them navigate this challenging experience. By coming together as a community to address these needs, we can make a significant difference in the lives of children facing homelessness, offering hope and pathways toward a more stable and secure future.




Director, Play Strong Institute



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The Effects of Homelessness on Children and Families

Homelessness in children may not always be immediately visible, especially when families are unhoused and temporarily staying with relatives or in shelters. However, certain signs can indicate a child may be experiencing homelessness:

Academic Challenges

  • Frequent absences from school due to instability in living conditions.
  • Difficulty concentrating in class, which may be a result of stress, hunger, or fatigue.
  • Declining grades or a sudden disinterest in schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

Emotional and Behavioral Signs

  • Anxiety and depression, often manifesting as withdrawal from peers or activities they once enjoyed.
  • Behavioral issues, such as aggression or acting out, which may be a response to stress or trauma.
  • Attachment issues, displaying either excessive clinginess or detachment from caregivers and friends.

Physical Indicators

  • Poor hygiene and grooming due to limited access to personal care facilities.
  • Chronic hunger or hoarding food when it is available.
  • Health issues, including chronic illnesses or untreated conditions, exacerbated by inadequate healthcare access.

Supporting Families Dealing with Homelessness

Parenting under the strain of homelessness demands immense resilience and creativity. Here are strategies to support children facing homelessness:

Stability and Routine

Creating a sense of normalcy through maintaining routines as much as possible can provide comfort and security for children amidst uncertainty.

Open Communication

Encourage open dialogue about the situation in a way that is appropriate for the child’s age, focusing on reassurance and hope for the future.

Seek Support

Leverage community resources, such as schools, shelters, and nonprofit organizations, for assistance with basic needs, educational support, and emotional counseling.

Therapy for Homelessness

Therapy can play a pivotal role in addressing the impact of homelessness on children:

Individual Therapy

Helps children process their experiences and emotions in a safe space, fostering resilience and coping mechanisms.

Family Therapy

Supports the entire family in navigating the challenges of homelessness, improving communication, and strengthening familial bonds.

Group Therapy

Offers a community of peers who understand what it means to face homelessness, providing mutual support and reducing feelings of isolation.