Inmates missing their kids have a bit more to look forward to this week, with a Corrections-run initiative helping them celebrate their children.
Activities, exhibitions and games are being put on in prisons as part of Corrections' Children of Prisoners Week.
Research published by prison families support group Pillars says children of prisoners are more likely than others to end up behind bars themselves.
Deputy national commissioner Rachel Leota says Children of Prisoners Week ensures parents in jail can maintain positive relationships with their kids.
"Children of prisoners are more likely to end up in prisons themselves," she told Newshub. "The research by Pillars supports positive engagement by parents with their children so they don't feel a level of abandonment."
Staff and community volunteers have organised a range of activities for children parents in prisons nationwide.
"They will have time to have a barbecue with their families [using] funds that prison units have raised. Essentially we want prisoner parents to really engage well with their children when they come to visit."
Thousands of Kiwi kids have a parent in prison, and Ms Leota says they shouldn't have to go without.
"It's not the child's fault the actions of their parent has led them to prison, and not have their parent with them. It's important that we facilitate contact between the child and parent."
Newshub.
