The National Survey of Children’s Health (NSCH) reported in 2017, the most recent data available, that of the 73.6 million children ages 0–18 in the United States, more than 5.1 million (7%), or 1 in 14, had a parent or guardian who was ever incarcerated. In Alabama, the numbers are even higher: of approximately 1.2 million children, 88,000 (8%), or 1 in 13, experienced parental or guardian incarceration (CDC, NSCH).
As the Annie E. Casey Foundation notes, parental incarceration disrupts families – the foundation of our communities – and creates instability that can have long-term effects on children’s development and well-being. Children with an incarcerated parent are often very young, most are under the age of 10. Many are living in low-income families with limited education.
Children impacted by the incarceration of a loved one face a range of challenges. Some struggle with basic physical needs such as food insecurity or housing instability. Others experience behavioral and emotional difficulties, including acting out in anger, falling behind academically, social withdrawal, and chronic fatigue linked to untreated depression or anxiety. Increased demands associated with incarceration, including prison visits, can further strain children and families. Many children feel isolated from peers and school activities, leading to higher absenteeism, social stigma, and fewer opportunities to participate in extracurricular programs.
Children coping with the incarceration of a loved one often lose the ability to simply be children. Since 2003, Extended Family has been committed to helping children navigate the emotional impact of this loss. Our staff serve children in kindergarten through 12th grade in schools and juvenile diversion programs. More than 800 students participated in Extended Family for Kids and Extended Family Leadership Academy programs in 2025.
Extended Family lives out its core value, Children Matter, by reaching as many children as possible with programs designed to help them express emotions in healthy ways, manage stress, and build resilience. Our work aims to break the cycle of incarceration within families and prevent youth involvement in the juvenile justice system by supporting children’s success at home, at school, and in their communities.
We are honored to witness the growth and resilience of the children we serve. It is never too early to empower young people to make healthy choices and pursue success, regardless of the circumstances created by an incarcerated loved one. By strengthening children mentally and emotionally, Extended Family helps equip them with the tools to choose a better path forward. For more information, visit www.extendedfamilyhelp.org.