Undocumented parents’ communication with their children on immigration status and family separation plans.

In the United States, the lives of millions of children with undocumented parents are overshadowed by the threat of family separation. This qualitative study investigates how parents who have proactively engaged in family deportation planning, such as choosing a standby guardian, communicate these decisions to their children. It draws on in-depth interviews with 27 undocumented parents with at least one U.S. citizen child under 18. Findings reveal that parents’ discussions are influenced by the children's age, their experiences with immigration enforcement, and their immigration status. Younger children typically remain unaware of these issues, whereas older children, especially those exposed to enforcement, have a greater understanding. Parents often struggled with the decision to disclose information, balancing the desire to protect their children emotionally with the need to prepare them for potential separations. The study highlights parents’ efforts to decriminalize their undocumented status, often using heritage stories and future aspirations to frame their situation positively. Parents also simplified guardianship concepts by introducing the guardian as a trusted figure to reassure their children. These strategies align with professional recommendations for immigration socialization, emphasizing developmentally appropriate discussions about immigration status and family plans. The results underscore the need for tailored support services for undocumented families to help them navigate these complex conversations and prepare for potential disruptions.