For Children: What Can I Do When Someone I Love Is Incarcerated?

It can be hard when someone you love is incarcerated. You might not understand all the reasons why this has happened, but you know you miss her or him, and you may feel sad because she or he is away. Your feelings are important. You may feel scared, angry, or confused. When you share how you are feeling with others, it will help you feel better.

People sometimes make bad choices, but those poor choices don’t automatically make them bad people. God loves all His children, including everyone who is incarcerated. He will help them and you every day. Jesus taught, “Come unto me, … and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). This means that as we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, He will help us with our problems. Pray to Heavenly Father and ask Him for help. He will help you feel His love and peace.

Did you know that other children have had a loved one who was incarcerated too? Here are a few of the things they experienced:

• One boy (age 14) thought that only bad people go to jail but then learned that good people could make wrong choices too.

• Another boy (age 12) was scared for his incarcerated dad—unsure whether his dad would be OK or if he would be able to visit.

• One girl (age 10) whose mom went to jail missed her every day. Visiting her mom sometimes made her sad all over again. But she knew her mom loved her and that they would be together again soon.

• Another boy (age 16) whose dad was in jail prayed for him every night. He knew his dad also prayed for him and that Heavenly Father was helping their family to stay safe.

Church and Community Resources

• “Coping with Incarceration,” Sesame Street in Communities, sesamestreetincommunities.org

• Help for Previously Incarcerated Individuals

• Guided Study for Adults in Custody