Elections are an important part of democratic life, but they can also be complex, contentious, and at times overwhelming. For parents and caregivers, this can raise the question: How do we talk to our kids about elections? How can we explain the significance of voting, the variety of candidates, and the sometimes heated discussions that accompany these events, all while keeping the conversation age-appropriate and positive?
Here’s a guide to help you navigate these conversations in a thoughtful and constructive way.
1. Start with the Basics: What is an Election?
For younger kids, the concept of an election might be confusing, as it’s a large, abstract event. Start by explaining the basic idea:
- What is an election? Elections are how people choose their leaders, just like how kids vote for things in class, like what game to play or what snack to have.
- Why do we have elections? Elections help people decide who will make important decisions that affect everyone. In a democracy, it's important for everyone to have a say, and voting is one way people do that.
- Who can vote? While only adults can vote, it’s important to let kids know that they, too, will one day be able to participate when they grow up.
2. Explain Why Elections Matter
Help kids understand the significance of elections in a way that relates to their own lives. For example:
- Rules and fairness: Just like how rules help everyone play a game fairly, elections help make sure decisions are made in a way that reflects the choices of many people.
- Leadership: Whether it's a class president or a mayor, leaders help make decisions that impact the community, from safety to schools and parks.
- Involvement: Let kids know that even if they’re not voting yet, they can still be involved by learning about candidates, their values, and how the election works. They can also encourage the adults around them to vote.
3. Discuss the Candidates Without Choosing Sides
Kids are observant, and they might hear discussions about candidates or even see political advertisements. It’s important to keep the conversation neutral and focus on facts. Rather than presenting a "right" or "wrong" side, frame the conversation around understanding different viewpoints.
- What do candidates do? Candidates are people who want to make the world a better place by solving problems in the community. They may have different ideas about how to do that.
- What is important? Help kids understand that different people have different beliefs about what’s important in life (like healthcare, education, or the environment), and that’s why there are many different candidates running for office.
- Respecting Differences: Teach children the importance of respecting different opinions and the value of civil discourse. Elections give people the freedom to express their opinions and vote for the ideas that are most meaningful to them.
4. Address Negative Campaigning and Controversy
In every election cycle, there are bound to be negative ads or heated debates. These can be unsettling for children. If they see or hear something disturbing, here’s how to handle it:
- Acknowledge their feelings: If a child is upset by something they saw or heard, acknowledge their feelings and reassure them that elections can be intense, but it’s important to focus on the issues that matter.
- Encourage critical thinking: Teach kids that not everything they see or hear during an election is true, and it's good to ask questions and seek out information from different sources. Encourage them to talk to trusted adults to help them understand what’s going on.
- Positive role models: Focus on the positive ways people can disagree and still work together. Remind kids that elections are about coming together to make the best choices for the community, even if everyone doesn’t always agree.
5. Empower Kids to Be Active Participants (In Their Own Way)
Although children can’t vote, they can still be involved and feel empowered during the election season:
- Get them involved in the process: Help them learn about the election process, such as what voting looks like (maybe even participate in a mock election at home). Let them accompany you to vote (if you’re doing so in person) and show them how important it is to have a say in how the community is run.
- Encourage questions: Help them develop an understanding of the issues at stake by asking questions like, “What do you think is important for a leader to do?” or “How do you think we can help make our community better?”
- Teach about respect and tolerance: Use this time to discuss the importance of empathy and listening. Elections can stir up strong emotions, but it’s essential to remain respectful toward others, even when you don’t agree.
6. Address Fear and Anxiety About Elections
For older children or teens, elections can sometimes bring up feelings of anxiety or fear, especially if the discourse is particularly divisive or uncertain. If your child is feeling uneasy:
- Reassure them: Let them know that it’s normal to feel nervous during times of change. Remind them that voting is part of a long tradition, and that no matter the outcome, people continue to work together to make the country or community better.
- Highlight the positive: Focus on stories of collaboration and positive changes that have come from past elections. Show them examples of progress, and remind them that their voices, even if they can’t vote yet, still matter.
7. Lead by Example
Finally, one of the best ways to teach kids about elections is to lead by example. Vote in elections, stay informed about issues, and engage in respectful discussions about the candidates. Children learn by watching the adults in their lives, and by showing them that elections matter, you’re helping instill an understanding of civic responsibility that will last a lifetime.
Talking to kids about elections is a chance to nurture critical thinking, empathy, and a sense of civic duty. While it’s natural to feel uncertain about how to approach these conversations, remember that by focusing on the values of fairness, respect, and participation, you can empower them to become informed and thoughtful members of society. Whether your child is just beginning to understand the concept of voting or is already forming their own opinions, the conversations you have today will lay the foundation for their future involvement in the democratic process.