Supporting Children of Incarcerated Parents in Schools: Foregrounding Youth Voices to Improve Educational Support

This book highlights the unique experiences of children of incarcerated parents (COIP) and counters deficit-based narratives to consider how young people's voices can inform and improve educational support services. It combines original research and personal experiences with an analysis of existing scholarship to provide insight into how COIP experience schooling in the US. By foregrounding youth voices and emphasizing resilience, maturity, and compassion, the book offers changes that educators and other allies can use to better support these children.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 124 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Drawing on qualitative research conducted with young people in New York, this comprehensive volume sheds light on the distinct experiences of children with incarcerated parents (COIP) and challenges prevailing deficit-based narratives. By examining the voices of young individuals, the book aims to inform and enhance educational support services for this population.

Supporting Children of Incarcerated Parents in Schools is a groundbreaking work that combines the authors' original research and personal experiences with a comprehensive analysis of existing scholarship. The text provides a unique insight into the schooling experiences of COIP in the United States, emphasizing the benefits of qualitative research for capturing the nuanced realities of these children and their experiences.

At the forefront of the book is the unwavering focus on youth voices, showcasing the resilience, maturity, and compassion exhibited by these young individuals. By centering their perspectives, the text underscores the importance of recognizing and valuing their voices in shaping educational support services. Moreover, it sheds light on the challenges that COIP face both within and outside the school environment, addressing associated issues around race and racism.

Through its comprehensive approach, the book offers valuable recommendations for educators and other allies seeking to better support children of incarcerated parents. It highlights the need for tailored interventions that address the unique challenges faced by COIP, such as academic disparities, social isolation, and trauma. It also emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with these children and their families, fostering a sense of belonging and support.

This volume appeals to scholars and researchers interested in the sociology of education, race and urban education, and the profound impacts of parental incarceration. It provides valuable insights into the experiences of COIP and offers practical strategies for educators and school leaders to enhance their support and intervention efforts. Moreover, the book's accessibility and engaging writing style make it a valuable resource for practitioners working directly with these young individuals and their families.

In conclusion, Supporting Children of Incarcerated Parents in Schools is a groundbreaking work that contributes significantly to our understanding of the experiences of COIP and the potential for positive change in educational support services. By centering youth voices and challenging prevailing narratives, the book offers a roadmap for educators, policymakers, and advocates to create more inclusive and supportive learning environments for children affected by parental incarceration.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032064147