How to Discuss Politics With Kids

The presidential election is a hot topic for children and parents. Knowing how to talk about elections and candidates while shielding kids from the political frenzy is a challenge. Regardless of your political party leanings, teaching kids about how a democracy works is an appropriate starting point. Here are five ways to encourage their interest.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Talk about the Privilege of Voting
   Studies show that young adults don’t vote because they didn’t see parents involved. If you value the election process, the freedoms of our democracy and want to pass that legacy to your children, it’s vital that you discuss the responsibility of voting. Take your kids to the polls with you when you vote and let them see the process in action. Casting a ballot is the responsibility of each citizen. If you vote by mail, show them the ballot and explain the process.

2. Hold Age Appropriate Discussions
   Ask your child’s teacher about political discussions that are held in the classroom and expand on the subject at home. Ask about their impressions of the candidates. Teenagers may be better informed than parents, so be open to hearing their points of view.

3. Avoid the Frenzy
   Don’t overwhelm you child with all the political scuttlebutt. Shield them from the intensity of the continual media coverage. You can be sure that your children are overhearing your discussions too. Don’t be cynical and don’t bash the candidates. Tie your discussion to the issues. Children are likely to take your discussions seriously, so be sensitive to what is appropriate for them to hear.

4. Cheer for your Candidate
   By the time election rolls around it’s likely that you and your family will be rooting for one candidate. Kids are interested in who is winning. Have an election night party and watch as the votes roll in. If your party or candidate loses, talk about what you can do to stay active and promote your ideals.

5. Show Enthusiasm
   If you show interest in the campaign and election, if you educate yourself and become informed, your children will follow in your footsteps. By watching you they’ll discover that it’s fun to be politically informed and involved.