Guide to talking with children about homelessness
As children develop (especially ages 5-8) they start to transition from being me-centered to seeing themselves as part of a group. This can be a fantastic opportunity to talk to them about homelessness.
Your child might be starting to ask you questions about people that they’ve seen who may be experiencing homelessness or you may want to proactively approach the subject.
General tips
Here are some general tips to use when talking to children about the issue of homelessness:
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1. Start with explaining what homelessness is |
Homelessness can be defined as the lack of a permanent place to live. This can mean living in shelters, on the streets, or in temporary housing. |
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2. Use age-appropriate language |
When talking to children, use language that is easy for them to understand and provide visual aids if necessary. |
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3. Emphasise the importance of empathy and kindness |
Encourage your child to be understanding and considerate of those who are experiencing homelessness. |
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4. Talk about the reasons for homelessness |
Discuss factors such as job loss, illness, and lack of affordable housing. |
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5. Encourage your child to help |
Discuss ways your child can make a difference, such as donating food or clothing to local shelters or volunteering time to organisations that help the homeless or even running a cake/lemonade stand and donating the proceeds to oragnisations that work in the area. |
Example conversation with a child aged 5-9:
You know how you have a nice, comfy bed to sleep in at night? Some people don't have a bed to sleep in.
When we go to the store, we pay for our food with money, right? Well, houses also cost money, and there are people who don't have enough money to own a bed or a house like ours.
We can give them water and food, and smile and say hello to them. It's important to be kind to people who are less fortunate than us. They are our neighbors too.
Unfortunately, they can't stay with us, but we can help them in other ways.
A parent and child sit together at home using a laptop, supporting gentle conversations with children aged 5 to 9 about understanding homelessness and how to help others.
Example conversation with a child age 10-14:
Getting a job can be more complicated than you might think, and sometimes there are other circumstances that prevent someone from finding one that is right for them.
They might have a disability; they might have young children they can't leave at home; or they might not have access to transportation. Not everyone is given the same opportunities as you or me.
There are many reasons why someone can fall into homelessness. Some people lose their jobs and can't afford a place to live. Others suffer from physical or mental health issues and don't have access to the help they need. Each person's story is different.
If we give them money, it only helps them temporarily. It's better to donate your time and/or money to organisations that are working to help them move back into homes.
When you donate to these organisations, you know your money will directly help those in need with a long term solution. Mission Australia is doing a lot of work on the issue of homelessness.
Some local organisations might need volunteers to assist in shelters, some organisations want contribution of clothes and food. The best way to help varies from area to area.
A trusted adult and young person share a moment outdoors, reflecting thoughtful conversations with children aged 10 to 14 about homelessness and how to support others.