Canada
Youth
Can I Choose Which Parent to Live with in Canada?
You can say what life in two homes feels like. If you live in Canada, adults should listen to your views. You do not have to settle the disagreement between your parents.
Someone to Talk to When Your Parents Separate in Canada
Changing homes or hearing your parents argue can feel like a lot to carry. If you live in Canada, you can ask someone to listen—even when there is no emergency or court case.
Canada · Checked 17 September 2026
You do not need a perfect explanation
You could say, “Things at home are hard and I want to talk.” A safe teacher, school counsellor, relative or healthcare professional can help.
It is okay to feel several things at once, or not know how you feel yet.
Kids Help Phone
Kids Help Phone supports young people across Canada. Its website explains counselling, text and other ways to get support.
Different services have different privacy arrangements. You can ask what stays confidential and what might be shared if someone is unsafe.
Things you can ask for
- Help putting a worry into words.
- Someone to listen without asking you to take sides.
- Help explaining that a routine is not working for you.
- Support telling an adult about something frightening.
If home feels unsafe
A safe adult can help contact the local child welfare service about harm or neglect. Emergency services deal with immediate danger.
Talking to a support service is not automatically the same as making a protection report. You can ask what the next step would be. You do not have to investigate the problem yourself.
This guide explains general rules and services. It does not assess your individual case.
Official guidance and sources
Information checked on 17 September 2026.
Based on the original article by Elisabeth Scholander.
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Youth
Feeling Safe at Home: A Guide for Children in Canada
You deserve care and protection from harm. If something at home hurts or frightens you, you can ask for help. You do not need to know the law before talking to a safe adult.
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