You’re not alone. This guide is just for you, to help you feel safer, stronger, and supported.

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Even if this hasn’t happened to you, you might hear about people being taken away by ICE at school, online, or in conversations with friends and family. That can feel confusing or scary.

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This page was created especially for kids, to help you understand your rights, feel more confident, and get prepared with the help of your family.

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Your Feelings Matter

 

It’s okay to feel scared, confused, or upset. You are not alone.

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When you hear or see something that feels scary:

• Take three deep breaths

• Talk to someone you trust

• Write or draw how you feel

• Say to yourself: “I am safe right now”

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Talking about your feelings can help you feel stronger and more in control.

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You Have Rights

 

Yes, even kids have rights! It’s important to know what they are.

If ICE agents are near or asking questions:

• You don’t have to answer

• You don’t have to open the door

• You can say: “I want to talk to a lawyer”

• Ask your family about a Red Card, which shows your legal rights

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A Red Card is a small paper that tells ICE officers you are using your right to remain silent and want to speak with a lawyer. Your parents or caregivers can help you get one. You can also ask them to practice using it with you.

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Your Family Safety Plan

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Talk to your parent or caregiver about a Family Preparedness Plan.

You should know:

• Your full name and your parent’s full name

• A phone number you can remember

• Who will take care of you if your family gets separated

• Where your important papers are kept

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Children’s Network has a Family Preparedness Toolkit you can look at with your grown-up. It's available on our website at https://www.childnet.org/immigration-resources.

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How You Can Help a Friend

 

Sometimes, your friends or classmates may feel scared too.

 

You can help them by:

• Listening to them without interrupting

• Saying: “I’m here for you”

• Taking deep breaths together

• Telling a trusted adult if something feels wrong

• Learning about your rights together

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Even small acts of kindness can help someone feel safer!

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Speak Up for What’s Right

 

Your voice matters EVEN as a kid!

When something feels unfair or wrong:

• Talk to a grown-up you trust

• Ask questions

• Stand up for your friends

• Say: “That’s not okay” when something feels wrong

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You don’t have to be loud to be brave. Just speaking from your heart makes a difference.

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Who Can You Talk To?

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You never have to handle big feelings or scary things by yourself.

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You can talk to:

• Your parent or caregiver

• A teacher or school counselor

• A family friend

• A trusted adult

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There are always people who care about you and want to help you feel safe!

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You Are Brave

 

Even when life feels hard, remember that you are strong. You are not alone. You are important. You are loved. You are never too young to be brave, and there are people ready to help you stay safe.

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Need Help or Want to Learn More?

 

Ask a parent or grown-up if it’s okay to go online. At www.childnet.org, you can:

• Learn your rights

• Download a Red Card

• Use our Family Preparedness Toolkit

• Explore ways to stay safe and strong

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This guide was created by the Children’s Network of Solano County to support local children and families. It was adapted from trusted resources, including the Immigrant Legal Resource Center, the American Academy of Pediatrics, Bright Littles, and the National Immigration Law Center.