Given recent political coverage and the debates, even preschoolers are likely aware that the U.S. is about to have a presidential election. And while you may want to avoid talking politics in social settings, the same is not true at home.
According to Cynthia Cynthia, Franchiee Business Manager of Kiddie Academy of Kent Island, parents can help their children to learn the importance of politics and debate in a way that isn’t intimidating or overwhelming.
“Parents can help to make sense of the election for young children by explaining politics in a way that a child can understand and digest. In fact, this is a great opportunity to teach their families about expressing and respecting differing opinions,” Seiler said.
Seiler offers a few tips and activities to help parents communicate this historic topic:
* Have a Party. Encourage your child to create their own mock political party. They can decide on their platform, create a symbol and even debate siblings or friends on the merits of their party. Perhaps the winner gets to choose the next movie to see or meals for a week.
* Write a Letter. Whether electronic or old-school ink and paper, having your child write a letter to a politician is a great way to demonstrate the democratic process and the importance of sharing opinions. Most elected officials now have email addresses – you can find your local representatives by starting at www.(your state).gov.
* Bring them with you. Take your children to the polls with you. They’ll be able to see first-hand how to cast a vote.
* Find Age-Appropriate Resources. Look for books and/or websites that can help provide answers about politics in an age-appropriate way. For example, Duck for President and http://www.nick.com/kpp/.
“Political conversations, especially during an election year, can easily become heated, which can be confusing and perhaps frightening to younger children. By explaining politics and debate in an age-appropriate fashion, you’ll reassure your children that they’re safe and set the stage for their later participation in the democratic process,” Seiler said.
To download more tips and ideas for introducing politics to children, parents can visit the Kiddie Academy Family Essentials blog at www.kafamilyessentials.com. For more information on Kiddie Academy of Stevensville, please call 410-643-3932 or email kentisland@kiddieacademy.net. For more information on Kiddie Academy, please visit www.kiddieacademy.com
About Kiddie Academy®
For more than 30 years, Kiddie Academy® has been a leader in education-based child care. The company serves families and their children ages 6 weeks to 12 years old, offering full time care, before- and after-school care and summer camp programs. Kiddie Academy’s proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum, supporting programs, methods, activities and techniques help prepare children for school and for life. Kiddie Academy is using the globally recognized AdvancED accreditation system, signifying its commitment to quality education and the highest standards in child care. Kiddie Academy is an official partner of the nonprofit organization, First Book, and is dedicated to supporting children’s literacy. For more information, visit www.kiddieacademy.com.