Ask an Expert
October 2009 When Children Are Homeless: How Preschool Teachers and Caregivers Can HelpJim MoberlyChildren who are homeless are, by definition, those children residing in shelters, motels, transitional housing, campsites, cars, or who are doubled up with relatives or friends. Children may become homeless at any time—before or during the school year. Care must be taken in these difficult times to not overlook these children.
Preschool programs may include those provided by school districts as well as other programs within the community. Caregivers may include parents, grandparents, other relatives, friends, community agencies, and individual community members.
Preschool teachers and caregivers can provide help in a number of different areas:
- Identification of children who are homeless
- Immediate enrollment into available programs
- Immunizations/physicals
- School supplies
- Information of existing help/programs available
- Transportation
- Housing
I invite your questions about how preschool teachers and caregivers can help children who are homeless in your community.
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