Homeless Families
Definition
Homelessness is a situation where an individual does not have a permanent place to live. This can include a variety of situations such as living in cars, parks, abandoned buildings, public spaces, train stations, and other similar places.
Factors that can contribute to homelessness
loss of loved ones
job loss
domestic violence
impairments such as depression or other physical disabilities
natural disasters
income
Effects of Homelessness
Homelessness has a lot of effects on early childhood development, school aged children, and more. Children who are homeless are not only at risk but may also suffer from physical, psychological, and emotional damage. In general homeless children usually have more health problems. Poor nutrition is a factor that contributes to their physical health and can cause illness. Homeless children often have poor cognitive development which effects their schooling. These children usually have distressed emotions because of the stressful events that they may be too young to understand.
Statistics
worldwide there is an estimation of 100 million people that are homeless
1.37 million homeless people in the U.S. are children under the age of 18
40% are families with children
41% are single males
14% are single females
1/3 of homeless children have at least one major mental disorder that interferes with daily activity
47% of homeless children have problems with anxiety, depression, or withdrawal
41% of homeless children attend two different schools in one year
28% of homeless children attend three or more schools in one year
Nationally 75% of homeless children will perform below their grade level in reading, 72% in spelling, and 54% in math
Tips for Teachers
Familiarize yourself with common characteristics of children who are homeless.
Adjust assignments so students that do not have permanent living situations can complete them.
Ensure that students who are homeless have every opportunity to participate in all school activities.
Have a supply of nutrition snack in your classroom
Provide items such as clothes, soap, and toothbrushes as needed
Keep the parents informed on how their child is performing in school
Encourage the parents to be involved
Make your classroom friendly
Show the child that you care about them
Tips for Parents
Know your child's educational rights
Enroll your child in school
Maintain high expectations for your child
Spend time with your child
Encourage your child to make friends
Stay positive and praise your child for positive things he/she does
Tell your child you love them
Support Links
http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/homelessness
http://www.endhomelessness.org
http://www.nationalhomeless.org/
Sources
http://center.serve.org/nche/definition.php
http://ezinearticles.com/?Top-Causes-of-Homelessness-in-America&id=3665972
http://www.homelessworldcup.org/content/homelessness-statistics
