Homelessness is a complex issue that affects our neighbors, our community and even our kids. As children grow up in Colorado Springs, they will very likely see homeless people. Whether it be a person asking for change on the corner or someone working to rebuild their life at Springs Rescue Mission, the kids in your life are bound to have questions. Engaging in open and age-appropriate conversations about homelessness with the children in your sphere of influence not only helps them develop empathy and compassion, but it also equips them to make a difference in the lives of those around them. Here are some practical tips on how to talk to kids about homelessness.

Start with Empathy:

Begin the conversation by fostering empathy in your children. Encourage them to imagine what it might feel like not to have a stable place to call home or how challenging it can be to sleep outside during cold nights. Help the kids in your life understand that everyone deserves to be treated with kindness and respect, regardless of their living situation. For Christian families, this might mean having a conversation about what it means to be created in God's image.

‍Explain Homelessness in Simple Terms:

When discussing homelessness, use age-appropriate language and concepts your child can understand. Explain that some people don't have a home, and it can happen for various reasons, such as losing a job, having medical problems or the loss of a loved one (if you feel they are old enough to handle that concept well). Homelessness does not reflect a person's worth or character. Conversations about everyone’s inherent dignity can help with this, and for Christian families, this may mean teaching or reminding your children that we are all equally valuable in God's eyes.

Encourage Questions:

Invite your children to ask questions about homelessness. Be prepared to answer them honestly, even if you don't have all the answers. If you're unsure about something, take the opportunity to learn together by researching and consider reading blogs about some of the men and women at Springs Rescue Mission. Our online campus tour could be a great way to learn more with the kids in your life! 

‍Highlight Common Misconceptions:

Children may have preconceived notions about homelessness, so it's crucial to address common misconceptions. For example, explain that not all individuals experiencing homelessness are lazy or dangerous and that they don’t all live in parks or under bridges. Teach your children that homelessness can happen to anyone and that it's crucial to treat these individuals as the men and women they are — not to identify them as the struggles they’re currently facing.

‍Share Stories:

Personal stories can be powerful teaching tools. Share age-appropriate stories about individuals who have experienced homelessness but have overcome challenges and found stability. Highlight the hope, healing and transformation that these men and women find at Springs Rescue Mission — show them that people really can change for the better. You can find a wealth of SRM success stories on our blog!

‍Focus on Community and Solutions:

Discuss the importance of community and how we can all contribute to helping neighbors in need. Brainstorm together about ways you can make a difference in Colorado Springs together, whether it be by becoming a monthly Good Samaritan Sponsor, creating a drive to collect essential items for SRM guests or even volunteering together on our campus (depending on their age)! Encourage the kids in your life to think creatively and offer suggestions for helping others. Remind them that no matter the size of their donation or the number of hours they volunteer, they are making a difference in someone’s life. 

Practice Kindness:

Teach your children that small acts of kindness can have a significant impact. Encourage them to be compassionate towards others, regardless of their circumstances. Explain how a smile, a kind word or a helping hand can brighten someone's day and make them feel seen and valued. Here’s a blog that might give you some creative ideas about showing kindness to homeless men and women in our community!

Lead by Example:

Remember that children learn by observing the actions of the adults in their lives: model empathy, generosity and compassion in your own behavior. Engage in volunteer activities as a family, donate items to shelters, or support local initiatives that address homelessness. By demonstrating your commitment to making a difference, you inspire your children to do the same.

‍