This document provides critical considerations for safety planning with children impacted by both domestic violence (DV) and substance abuse, including substance abuse coercion. It emphasizes that even young children can learn safety elements, but infants and very young children face the highest risk. The tipsheet highlights why safety planning is crucial for children (e.g., to feel empowered, understand it’s not their fault, and gain knowledge for self-protection). It outlines key components of a child’s safety plan, including escape routes, emergency contacts (with 911 guidance), and procedures for calling for help. Additionally, it offers guidance for adults on supporting children, including listening, providing consistency, reassuring them it’s not their fault, practicing the plan, giving positive messages, setting limits for children’s substance use or violence, and connecting them with appropriate services and child-focused programs.
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