Immigration enforcement actions impact people of all ages, but young people often experience it in especially confusing and emotional ways. They may notice classmates missing, hear fragments of adult conversations, feel powerless or sense fear in their communities.

As a result, youth workers are frequently asked difficult questions like, “Why isn’t my friend here today?” or simply, “Why is this happening?”

While these moments can feel overwhelming, they also present an opportunity. Youth workers play a vital role in helping young people process uncertainty with honesty, care, and hope.

Considerations for having courageous conversations with youth

First and foremost, conversations about immigration must be truthful, age-appropriate, and ethical. Young people are perceptive. They often know when something serious is happening, even if they don’t fully understand it. Avoiding the topic altogether can increase fear or confusion. Instead, offering clear and compassionate explanations builds trust.

Here are some tips for age-appropriate conversations:

Adolescent (4-7)– Simple and Supportive. Your goal is to help them feel safe. Focus on comfort, keep it simple “some people aren’t being treated nicely because of where they were born.” Offer extra comfort like hugs and reassurance.

Preteen (8–12) – Simple and Informative. Your goal is to help them name what they’re feeling such as sadness, worry, confusion without giving overwhelming information. Explain the situation and remind them to only talk about this with trusted adults.

Teenagers (13–17) – Honest, Guided Discussion. Your aim is to encourage critical thinking to help them differentiate between facts, opinions, social media rumors, and misinformation. Empower them.

Older Teens & Young Adults – Deeper Dialogue. Your role can be to validate their right to have an opinion and help them explore meaningful civic engagement as a response.

At the same time, acknowledge your own limits. These conversations can be emotionally heavy for youth workers as well. Setting personal boundaries, seeking support from colleagues, and practicing self-care are essential so you can continue showing up fully for young people. An open conversation does not mean having all the answers. It means being present, listening, and responding with care.

Practical ways to support young people

During times of uncertainty, preparation can help youth workers feel more confident and grounded. Consider the following steps as you navigate conversations about immigration:

• Consider their age and development. Young people understand information differently depending on their age and experiences. Tailor your language and level of detail accordingly.
• Give space for questions and reactions. Some youth may have many concerns, while others may not be ready to ask questions yet. Both responses are okay.
• Listen. Adults tend to dominate a conversation, but it’s important young people have the space to share what they know, have seen and heard. This can you understand what they know in the conversation.
• Be truthful and optimistic. Honesty builds trust, while optimism helps prevent conversations from feeling hopeless.
• Share resources when appropriate. Based on their age and situation, help young people identify trusted adults, community organizations, or safe spaces they can turn to.
• Honor cultural practices and healing methods. Culturally appropriate approaches can help young people feel seen, respected, and supported.
• Always convey reassurance and hope. While challenges may continue, it’s crucial to leave young people with a sense that they are not alone and that support exists.

Hold on to hope

It can feel difficult to hold onto hope yourself when so much is happening in the world, especially when young people are looking to you for reassurance. However, history reminds us that change is possible and that things can get better, even during long periods of uncertainty.

Fear and anxiety may not disappear after a single conversation, and that’s okay. Let young people know this is an ongoing, growing conversation, one where their questions, emotions, and experiences are always welcome. By continuing to show up with honesty and care, you help empower young people to find their voice, build resilience, and recognize their own strength, while reminding them they are supported, valued, and never alone.

We are all learning how to navigate the new challenges with increased immigration enforcement activity. Take the opportunity to check out YIPA’s large library of trainings for working with youth. Our mental health training, Understanding and Navigating the Impacts of Trauma in Youth Work, will help you develop trauma-informed approaches for working with young people.