The Hidden Helpers: Recognizing The Role Of Kids In Family Caregiving

Feb 22

Key Takeaways:

Hidden Helpers make a big difference: Young helpers take care of their families and learn important skills at the same time.
Helping Hidden Helpers is important: Families, schools, and communities should team up to make sure these young helpers do well.
Noticing and thanking them is key: Hidden Helpers work quietly, so cheering them on makes them feel special and loved.

When we think about caregiving, we often picture adults taking care of loved ones in need. But did you know that kids and teens also play a big role? These young caregivers, often called "Hidden Helpers," quietly help their families in big ways—helping with chores, comforting loved ones, and bringing joy to those around them. The ways they help might not always be visible, but they’re very important. For caregivers, supporting young helpers is important, and caregiver support programs can be a great tool. Here’s one to consider.

Building Better CaregiversⓇ is a six-week online program designed to support and empower caregivers. It offers education and support in a convenient, online setting. We understand the difficulties and challenges of being a caregiver, that’s why we offer Building Better Caregivers as a tool to help make life a little easier for caregivers and less isolating.

Caregivers can join at any time, work at their own pace, and participate whenever they want. Each group is made up of 30 caregivers who connect through weekly lessons, discussion boards, and one-on-one conversations, offering one another tips and support for their personal caregiving challenges.

The program is led by trained staff members many of whom have been caregivers themselves. These leaders guide discussions, share personalized resources, and keep workshops safe and supportive.

Building Better Caregivers has been recognized as a proven program by the Benjamin Rose Institute on Aging and the Family Caregiving Alliance.

“It was very helpful to learn things I might not have known and get tips and support from the others in the group. It helps just knowing there is someone who knows what you’re going through and can offer helpful tips, not just listen.”

– Building Better Caregivers Participant

What Are Hidden Helpers?

Hidden Helpers are kids and teens who help take care of someone in their family who is sick, disabled, or needs extra help every day. This could be a parent, sibling, grandparent, or other loved one. They might not think of themselves as "helpers," but their role is very important. They do things like helping with daily tasks, keeping the person company, or just being there to make them feel loved. Even though they are young, their kindness and effort make a big difference.

How Kids Help In Family Caregiving

Kids help in many ways when someone in their family needs extra care. They might:

Help with chores like cooking, cleaning, or grocery shopping.
Assist the person by bringing them medicine, water, or a blanket.
Keep the person company by talking, reading, or watching TV with them.
Take care of younger siblings while parents focus on caregiving tasks.
Make the person smile with hugs, laughter, and love.

Even small things, like listening or helping around the house, show that kids care about their family. Their help can make loved ones feel supported and make life easier for everyone. When kids help, it also gives parents or other adults extra support when things get busy or difficult.

Plus, being a helper can teach kids important life skills, like being responsible, patient, and understanding. They learn how to be kind and solve problems, which are great lessons for life. Even though their role is often unseen, kids are a big part of making their family stronger.

Risks For Kids Becoming Caregivers

When kids take on too many caregiving responsibilities, it can sometimes be overwhelming. They may feel tired, stressed, or worried about their family member all the time. This can make it harder to focus on school, spend time with friends, or just have fun.

Taking care of someone can also make kids feel like they have to grow up too fast. Instead of playing or relaxing, they might feel like they always have to help. While helping is a kind and important thing to do, kids also need time for themselves.

If a child is feeling overwhelmed, it’s important that they talk to a trusted adult, like a parent, teacher, or counselor. Caregiving should be shared so that no one feels like they have to do everything alone.

How Being A Caregiver Can Impact A Child’s Education

When kids spend a lot of time helping care for a family member, it can sometimes make school harder. They may have less time to do homework, study for tests, or focus in class because they are thinking about their responsibilities at home. Feeling tired or stressed can also make learning more difficult.

Some kids may miss school days if they have to stay home to help. This can make it harder to keep up with lessons and understand new things. If a child is struggling in school because of caregiving, talking to a teacher or school counselor can help find ways to make things easier.

Education is important, and kids should have time to learn, play, and enjoy school while still being able to help their families in a healthy way.

Ways To Support Kids Who Are Caregivers

Kids who help care for family members sometimes need extra support, too. While helping can be rewarding, it can also feel overwhelming at times. Here are some ways to make sure kids who are caregivers feel supported and balanced in their everyday lives.

Talk To Them

It’s important for kids to have someone they can talk to about their feelings. If they are feeling sad, tired, or worried, they should know that it's okay to share those emotions. Parents, teachers, or trusted adults can ask how they’re doing and really listen to their answers. Knowing that someone cares and understands can help kids feel less alone and remind them that their feelings matter.

Give Them Breaks

Kids need time to play, relax, and just enjoy being kids. If they are always helping, they might feel tired or miss out on fun activities. Scheduling time for hobbies, playing outside, or spending time with friends helps them recharge. Taking breaks isn’t selfish—it’s important for staying happy and healthy.

Teach Them Skills

Helping can feel less stressful when kids know how to do things safely and confidently. Teaching them simple ways to help, like keeping track of schedules or doing small tasks, can make caregiving easier. When kids feel prepared and capable, they won’t feel as overwhelmed by their responsibilities.

Encourage School And Friends

It’s important for kids to keep up with school, play sports, join clubs, or just hang out with friends. Sometimes caregiving takes up a lot of time, and kids might miss out on fun activities. Making sure they still have time to learn, have fun, and enjoy their friendships helps them grow and feel happy.

Where Kids Can Find Support

School Counselors And Teachers

If caregiving is making school harder, kids can talk to a teacher or counselor. Schools can offer extra help with homework, give more time for assignments, or just be a place where kids feel understood. Teachers and counselors want to help and can be great people to talk to when things feel tough.

Support Groups And Online Resources

Some kids may not know anyone else in their situation, but there are support groups and online communities where young caregivers can connect and share their experiences. These groups help kids realize they’re not alone and give them advice on handling stress. Finding a safe space to talk with others can make a big difference in feeling supported and heard.

Legal Rights And Protections

In some places, there are laws that help protect kids who take care of family members. These laws make sure they can still go to school, have time to rest, and get extra support when needed. Some schools or workplaces can give special help, like extra time for homework or flexible schedules, if caregiving responsibilities make things harder. While not all areas have specific laws for young caregivers, there are groups and programs that can offer guidance and support. If a child caregiver feels overwhelmed or unsure of their rights, talking to a teacher, school counselor, or trusted adult can help them find the right resources.

Recognizing And Celebrating Hidden Helpers

It’s important to recognize and celebrate kids who are Hidden Helpers. They might not always get noticed, but their hard work and kindness deserve a big “thank you.” Here are some ways to show appreciation:

Say Thank You

A simple “thank you” can make them feel seen and valued. Letting them know you notice their efforts shows them how important they are to the family and makes them feel appreciated for all they do.

Celebrate Their Efforts

Plan a special day or treat to honor their help, like a family movie night, a trip to their favorite place, or their favorite meal. These small gestures show that their contributions are meaningful and worth celebrating.

Share Their Story

Let others know how much they do by sharing their role with friends, family, or even in school settings. This helps them feel proud and teaches other people that young caregivers are important.

Give Them Encouragement

Remind them how important their efforts are and how much they mean to the family. Words of encouragement can boost their self-esteem and motivate them to keep contributing while feeling supported.

Final Thoughts

Hidden Helpers are an incredible part of many families, quietly making a big difference through their care and love. While they may not always get the spotlight, their efforts help keep families strong and connected.

Seeing the role of these young caregivers reminds us of their importance and the need to support them as they grow. Whether it’s through a kind word, a little break, or a big celebration of their efforts, every bit of encouragement helps. Let’s make sure Hidden Helpers know just how much they’re valued—because they truly are the heart of their families.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Role Of Kids In Family Caregiving

What does being a "Hidden Helper" mean?

A Hidden Helper is a child or teenager who contributes to caregiving tasks for a family member with special needs, an illness, or a disability. They provide support in ways that aren’t always noticed.

Are there risks for kids involved in caregiving?

Yes, kids can experience emotional stress, burnout, or challenges balancing school and caregiving. Providing them with proper support is important for their well-being.

Can caregiving affect a child's education?

Caregiving responsibilities might sometimes interfere with schoolwork or extracurricular activities. Schools can help by offering flexible schedules or additional school support.

Do Hidden Helpers have legal rights or protections?

In some places, young caregivers are recognized and supported through programs or laws that make sure they get the help they need. Resources vary depending on the country or region.

How can families prevent young caregivers from feeling overwhelmed?

Families can encourage open communication, share tasks among other members, and create opportunities for kids to rest and enjoy activities they love.

Are there resources specifically for young caregivers?

Yes, organizations and support groups exist to offer counseling, training, and support tailored to young caregivers.

Why might kids not talk about their caregiving role?

Kids may not realize they’re caregivers or might feel shy or afraid of being judged. Raising awareness helps them understand they are not alone and deserve to know that others see them.

What can schools do to help Hidden Helpers?

Schools can provide counseling services, recognize the challenges these kids face, and adapt assignments or schedules to better fit their needs.

How can communities support Hidden Helpers?

Communities can organize support programs, create safe spaces for kids to share their experiences, and raise awareness to make sure young caregivers feel valued and included.

What life skills do Hidden Helpers develop?

Hidden Helpers often learn how to care for others, problem-solving, time management, and strength—skills that benefit them throughout their lives.

Maggie Reed