By Rebecca Ullrich in April 2019; Updated by Alejandra Londono Gomez in February 2022

Early childhood programs play an important role in the lives of young children and their families. But in our current immigration policy climate, families across the country are questioning whether it’s safe to attend or enroll.

Providers can take steps to protect families’ safety and privacy by implementing policies that designate their facilities as a safe space from immigration enforcement.

This guide explains federal agency guidance related to “protected areas,” provides information about designing and implementing “safe space” policies, and includes sample policy text that early childhood providers can adapt for their programs.