Mom’s Vibe
By Krystle J. Bailey
This election season has made way for a rollercoaster of emotions, thoughts, and questions for most of us. It seems as though everywhere we turn there is another political conversation, whether on TV, radio or among our friends and family. With so much attention on politics over the last several months, it is inevitable that our children will get wind of the political climate.
Social media connected children may even become aware of breaking news before we do. We live in a world of constant information, which means it is without question that our children will be seeking clarification on certain things. While I know many parents who choose to shelter their young children from any talks of politics, many families do choose to include their children in the conversation.
Personally, I am very open with my kids and as a homeschooling parent this year, I used the election season to teach my two children about government, history, and politics. In doing so, I’ve found the following tips valuable.
Ask Them Questions
One of the most valuable questions I regularly ask my children is, “what do you think about this?” In my greatest attempts not to impart my own biases or let them know how I feel, I ask them how they feel about certain topics. I remind them that there are no wrong answers, that they do not have to have it all figured out, and that I value and respect however they feel. This opens up lines of communication about a variety of topics. Usually, once they explain their own perspective, I will offer my own so that we can have a two-way conversation.
The follow-up question is, “How does that make you feel?” Sometimes they can identify their feelings, while other times they shoulder-shrug. Regardless of their response, we always leave the door open on the topic. I let them know that if they want to talk about how it makes them feel at any point in the future, the conversation is open-ended. I am constantly amazed at what my children can teach me when my mind is open and they have the floor.
Read Kid-Friendly Books
The “What Was…?” series is a great way to introduce various topics. The New York Times best-selling books offer digestible topics and thought-provoking questions for school-aged children. We just finished reading “What Is a Presidential Election?” Through reading this book, my kids were challenged to think deeply about what characteristics they think a president should have and what platforms matter most to them.
There are countless other books available to discuss election season with our children. Some titles include The Little Book of Presidential Elections and A Vote Is a Powerful Thing. A quick search on Amazon offers a long list of books to choose from for varying age groups.
Keep The Main Thing
One of the main reasons that I choose to discuss politics with my children is because it opens the door to discuss our family morals and values. It allows me a chance to talk to them about the things they think are “right” or “wrong.” I make it a point to remind them that they do not have to agree with me and that when they are old enough to vote, that they should cast their vote based on what is most important to them, not me. They may see life differently than I do when the time comes and that’s okay! It’s important to me that they have their own voice.
That being said, there are specific values that I want to instill in them including empathy for others, the importance of how we choose our words, and how we show up for ourselves and others. Talking about these things through the election season has given our family an opportunity to discuss our core values.
Discuss Biases and Conflict
Introducing kids to the idea of biases is an open invitation to encourage them to think critically. No matter which way you may personally lean politically, it is without a doubt true that varying news sources show the same story in several different lights. Use this as an opportunity to discuss critical thinking and truth-seeking. Pick a topic that is age-appropriate for your child and show them how there can always be another perspective. This also reinforces the idea of empathy, reminding them that everyone has a different life perspective.
In addition to thinking critically, this is a great opportunity to teach kids that conflict is not inherently negative. Conflict can be a good thing when handled with decency and respect for one another.
Empower Young Leaders
Our children are the leaders of tomorrow. As we discuss policies, elections, and the power of democracy, look for ways to encourage future leaders. Pinterest has a world of crafts that explain all things government in a kid-friendly manner. I find that creativity opens up thoughts and conversation topics that reading books does not, and vice versa.
Encourage these bright young leaders to come up with a campaign slogan that they would use if they ran for president. Allow it to be silly and playful or serious and thought-provoking. My 10 year old’s campaign slogan is “Meow Like a Cat, Woof Like A Dog.” I mean, she would definitely get my vote. Allow them to design bumper stickers or pins for when they one day run for elected office.
Most of all, just remember that our children are bright, intelligent, and inherently kind little humans. We have the power to guide them in a way that encourages leadership and courage. When they make their way out into the world, it is these moments that they will remember and how we kept them safe, secure and informed.
Stay safe, stay kind, and shop local this holiday season.
Krystle J Bailey. Multimedia journalist, Author, Poet
