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Because they affect every part of society, parents should teach their children about politics and government. These lessons should be consistent and progressive as the child ages. For example, your children should be learning the election process each year with greater and greater complexity.
Decide What to Teach
Your child’s age is the primary determinant for what you teach them about politics and government. For example, you may not go into the details of what a constitutional republic is and how our government is set up with a preschool-aged child. However, your lessons should get more detailed as your child ages. Therefore, by the time they are in high school, your children are civic-minded, well-informed citizens who are ready to take on their civic responsibilities.
Your lessons should also be tailored to your children’s ages. For example, you may use metaphors, such as the president is the nation’s parent, as you teach young children, while older children should be taught true history and the intent of the founding fathers.
Talk to Them
Open discussions are one of the best ways you can share information about your nation and its political process. Your child may hear something at school or on the news and have questions. Be open to answering those questions without focusing on the negatives. Teach them about the positive aspects of the political system and government. For example, the government is made up of people who were elected to represent those from their district or state, so the people have the power in a representative government.
Use Storybooks
Storybooks, even modern fairytales or fables, are great ways to teach your children about politics and government. Choose age-appropriate texts and be ready to explain any confusing concept. However, be sure that you choose accurate, historical texts and stories.
Participate in Civic Activities
Participating in civic activities provides a great opportunity for children to learn. You may tour historical museums, your state capitol or historic landmarks. You may also bring your children with you as you vote. Take them to watch local political debates. Join a state capitol tour during a legislative session so they understand how the local legislative process works. You may also take them to school board meetings, which directly impact their educations. Be active in your local community and bring your kids along.
Children learn much from observing you. They will determine what is important based on what you teach them and what you do. Teach your children the importance of being good stewards and citizens.
