How Do Children Cope With Losing Their Homes?

When a family loses a home, it can be difficult for everyone, especially children.

According to a 2008 study by First Focus, nearly 2 million children will lose their homes due to foreclosure. With foreclosure and other financial issues comes added family stress, and children feel the stress as well.

Consequences of Losing a Home

The study by First Focus found that children who lose their homes are more prone to behavior problems, including violence. They also tend to be behind in reading skills, possibly due to changing schools more often.

Helping Children Cope

To help children cope, parents should talk to their children and encourage them to discuss their fears. It is also important to maintain a routine as much as possible, and to make sure children eat well and get enough sleep. Maintaining a sense of normalcy can help in difficult times.

Taking Care of Family

Children tend to be more upset when they sense their parents are upset. Parents should make sure their own needs are met. Finding another adult to share concerns with can help.

References

• Foundation for the Homeless: Unsettling Times
• First Focus: New Report Reveals 2 million children Impacted by Foreclosure