LITTLE LIGHTS TOOLKIT

Helping Children Heal Through Connection & Care
Created by Mothers Bail Bond | For Families Affected by Parental Incarceration

Growing Strong in the Face of Separati

Because Even the Smallest Hearts Feel the Loss

When a parent is incarcerated, the impact on young children can be deep and lasting. Little Lights is a gentle, practical resource for caregivers, educators, and relatives who are supporting children through this difficult journey.

Developed by Mothers Bail Bond, the toolkit is filled with calming activities, emotional support tools, and age-appropriate stories to help kids feel safe, seen, and loved—no matter what their family is going through.

When a parent is incarcerated, a child’s world shifts. Rising Roots is a year-round, community-driven initiative dedicated to helping children impacted by incarceration grow with strength, confidence, and hope. Through leadership-building activities, nature-based programs, and long-term mentorship, we guide children on a path of healing and resilience.

With the continued support of Mothers Bail Bond, Rising Roots serves as a safe haven for youth navigating the emotional weight of parental incarceration.

Why Little Lights Matters

Children don’t always have the words to express grief, fear, or confusion—but their hearts feel everything. The absence of a parent due to incarceration can cause anxiety, behavioral shifts, and emotional distress. Little Lights is here to guide caregivers in creating safe emotional spaces where healing can begin.

Inside the Toolkit

Calming & Connection Activities
Easy, screen-free activities designed to soothe anxiety and strengthen emotional bonds—like breathing games, memory jars, and daily check-ins.
Talking Tips for Tough Topics
Age-sensitive ways to explain incarceration honestly, without fear or shame. Includes prompts, sample phrases, and encouragement for open conversation.
Book-Based Healing
Reading stories helps children process feelings safely. We recommend starting with:
- “The Night Dad Went to Jail” by Melissa Higgins
- “Visiting Day” by Jacqueline Woodson
- “Mama Loves Me from Away” by Pat Brisson
- “Knock Knock: My Dad’s Dream for Me” by Daniel Beaty
Emotional Check-In Charts
Visual tools to help children express what they feel—even when they don’t have the words.
Letter & Drawing Templates for Connection
Creative pages kids can use to write or draw to their incarcerated parent, maintaining connection and hope.

Caregiver Reflections

“This toolkit helped me explain the impossible to my granddaughter. We cried, we colored, we talked—and we’re still healing.”
– Caregiver in East Los Angeles

LITTLE LIGHTS TOOLKIT

GETTING YOU BACK TO YOUR LIFE QUICKLY AND AFFORDABLY