The Academy is a voice for all children--regardless of where they or their parents were born, their documentation status, or nationality. The Academy is committed to advancing policies that protect the best interests and rights of immigrant children and families to health, well-being, and safety."

 

 


Our Advocacy Priorities

In accordance with internationally accepted rights of the child, immigrant and refugee children should be treated with dignity and respect and should not be exposed to conditions that may harm or traumatize them.

The AAP has been a leading voice speaking out to support policies that protect and speak out against policies that are detrimental to immigrant children's health, including family separation, detention and policies that create barriers to accessing health care, nutrition and housing assistance.

Whether children in immigrant and refugee families are seeking safety, legal permanent residency, or citizenship, they deserve access to quality healthcare, nutrition, and housing and should be treated with dignity and respect. 

AAP Advocacy for Children in Immigrant Families

Detention of Immigrant Children

The AAP endorses the humane treatment of all immigrant children seeking safe haven in the United States, including protecting children who from detention whenever possible.

Meeting the Medical and Mental Health Needs of Unaccompanied Children in U.S. Communities

Unaccompanied children have experiences and circumstances that require a thoughtful approach to ensure their medical and mental health needs are met. Title: [Meeting the Needs of Unaccompanied Children.

Providing Care for Children in Immigrant Families

Care for children in immigrant families includes multiple opportunities for advocacy at individual, institutional, state, federal, and global policy levels. Title: [AAP Policy Statement providing care for Immigrant Children.

AAP Leadership Speaks Out to Support Health for Children in Immigrant Families

The following resources provide important insights and recommendations related to the care and protection of immigrant children. Click on each title to view the full letter or article.

Get Involved

Council on Immigrant Child and Family Health
The Council on Immigrant Child and Family Health (COICFH) is committed to promoting the care of immigrant children and youth.
COICFH Patient Care
Pediatricians can use the resources and guidance on this page to help care for immigrant children.

Become an Advocate

Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest advocacy news. (AAP login required).

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Last Updated

06/17/2025

Source

American Academy of Pediatrics