It was early morning, and I was barely awake when my 5-year-old daughter, Mia, barged into my room wearing her favorite unicorn pajamas. “Mom, did you see that guy? He’s our president now!” she exclaimed, her face scrunched up in disbelief. It was a moment of stark realization—this was not the outcome we had hoped for after a long campaign filled with aspiration and hope.
My husband and I had turned off the news hours earlier, only to lie awake processing the results. It was a strange mix of familiarity and concern, as we’ve both seen political tides shift in our careers. But this time, it felt more personal; it was about the values we wanted to instill in our kids: compassion, equality, and understanding.
As I shook off the sleepiness and gathered my thoughts, I knew I had to navigate this conversation carefully. Here are 10 strategies I’ve found helpful in discussing election results with my children when the news isn’t what we wanted to hear.
1. You Are Loved and Valued
First things first, remind your kids that they are loved and cherished. Make sure they know that their family and community hold them in high regard. It’s crucial for them to feel secure in their worth.
2. I Will Protect You
With all the fearmongering during the election, reassure your children that you will keep them safe. Your words and actions should convey security, letting them know they can rely on you.
3. We Can Get Up After a Fall
It’s essential to acknowledge that sometimes things don’t go as planned. Show your kids how to rebound from disappointment rather than glossing over it. Emphasize resilience by demonstrating how to take the next steps forward.
4. It’s Okay to Feel Sad and Confused
Be open about your feelings. Let your children see your vulnerability and share your sadness and uncertainty about the future. It helps them understand that it’s okay to express their own emotions.
5. Discuss Realities Like Sexism and Racism
These issues exist and acknowledging them is vital. Don’t shy away from discussing how these societal factors can influence elections and why they are concerning. Your kids need to be aware of the world around them.
6. Empower Girls to Dream Big
Reinforce the idea that girls can achieve anything. Even if the election didn’t go as we hoped, our commitment to encouraging our daughters to strive for greatness remains unwavering. When they ask tough questions, be honest and encourage their aspirations.
7. Civic Engagement is a Continuous Journey
Your kids might have loved their “I Voted” stickers, but civic duty isn’t just a once-every-four-years affair. Talk about the importance of being involved in their communities and understanding how elections work.
8. We Will Advocate for Human Rights
Encourage activism in your family. Teach your kids to stand up for justice, equality, and respect for all individuals. Your values should remain steadfast, even in challenging times.
9. Get Involved in the Community
Change requires action, and it starts at home. Show your kids the importance of participating in community activities and volunteering. This fosters a sense of responsibility and connection.
10. Moving Forward with Hope and Joy
Politics can be unpredictable, but the love for your family is constant. Guide your children through this phase, emphasizing the importance of forgiveness and finding joy in everyday life, despite challenges.
Navigating these conversations isn’t easy, but it’s an important part of parenting. For more insights and guidance on family building, check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination.
In summary, engaging with your children about political outcomes can be a tough task, especially when results are disheartening. However, using these strategies can help foster understanding, resilience, and hope in your children as they learn to navigate the complexities of the world.