As my son burst into the kitchen after school, his face illuminated with excitement, he declared his intention to run for class president in eighth grade. He spoke passionately about his plans, using terms like “platform” and “campaign,” and I couldn’t help but beam with pride. My partner and I deeply value our right to vote and engage in local governance, so seeing our son eager to participate in politics was truly heartwarming.
My own political perspectives were molded early on by parents who made political discourse a part of our everyday conversations. My father, a dedicated conservative, and my mother, a fervent liberal, often engaged in spirited debates at the dinner table. I vividly remember my father’s impassioned views on Social Security and how my mother had me chanting “Jimmy Carter” before I could even say my own name. In the evenings, I would watch Cokie Roberts cover Capitol Hill, and Tim Russert became a Sunday staple as he hosted Meet the Press. Even now, I ask my mother about candidates in various Congressional districts, and she recalls them as effortlessly as my kids can name every Minecraft character.
Over the years, I’ve occasionally grappled with my beliefs, but thanks to my parents’ willingness to discuss social issues openly, I’ve been able to articulate my political stance. Their guidance not only familiarized me with the nuances of governance but also taught me to consider multiple perspectives. Now that my children are approaching voting age, I want to ensure they feel empowered to express their own political opinions, even when they differ from mine.
My children are already experiencing the lively political discussions that characterized my childhood. My partner and I have differing views, and our debates can become quite animated. However, we prioritize factual information and well-reasoned arguments to demonstrate to our kids that respectful discourse is essential in selecting a worthy leader. By openly sharing our opinions and responding to our children’s queries, we aim to raise thoughtful citizens who care about their community.
Engaging in political conversations with kids goes beyond just debates at the dinner table. They learn best through experience and example. My partner and I make it a point to take our kids to the polls during local and presidential elections, explaining the voting process as we cast our ballots. We introduce them to local representatives at community events, discussing the roles these officials play in our town. Both my partner and I have served on executive boards for our schools and community organizations, and while I enjoyed being part of the process, I won’t deny the thrill of holding that gavel.
Our children have witnessed me advocating at zoning board meetings and supporting teachers during contract negotiations. They’ve seen me lead PTA meetings and participate in our neighborhood association. Throughout these experiences, I’ve instilled in them the belief that their voices matter, regardless of how small they may feel. When my son announced his candidacy, his excitement was contagious, and I eagerly took on the role of his campaign manager to help him navigate the process.
Children are eager to learn about their country and its leaders. They seek safety and understanding, and as parents, our role is to guide them without instilling fear or perpetuating negativity. We should teach them the importance of civic duty and the impact of voting. Instead of spreading half-truths about candidates we oppose, we should explain how the electoral college works and discuss the principles of checks and balances. Most importantly, we should cultivate an environment of hope, not hate.
As my son campaigns for class president, we’ve had numerous discussions about his platform. We’ve talked about the importance of integrity and following through on promises. When discussing campaign slogans, he simply smiled and said he wanted to be “the good guy” of the race, hoping that his underdog status would resonate with his fellow classmates. Regardless of the outcome of his election on November 8 (the same day as that big national election), I know he’s entering this race with a solid, honest platform, and I’m proud to have laid the groundwork for him to appreciate his civic responsibilities. I still think he should have chosen my slogan: “Vote for me because my mom already told the internet I won.”
If you’re interested in learning more about related topics, check out this insightful blog post on civic engagement.
Summary:
This article highlights the importance of fostering political awareness in children through open discussions and active participation. The author shares personal anecdotes of her upbringing, emphasizing the role of parents in guiding their children to understand civic duties and the political process. By taking their kids to polls, engaging in respectful debates, and encouraging their voices, parents can nurture informed and thoughtful future citizens.