How to talk with your children about the election…

Here we are on the eve of Election Day 2020. I have a second grader who is very observant. He comments on all of the signs, flags and rallies he sees as we drive through town. He has been present through parts of the debates when they were on tv. If your children are anything like mine, they have probably been asking questions. In this extremely polarized political time, what is the best way to talk with our kids?

I found a wonderful article by the CEO of the American Academy of Pediatrics discussing this very issue.

• Explain: A great approach is to ask what your child already knows and what they think the election is about. This allows you to confirm these thoughts or correct any misconceptions. Next take the time to explain what the election is for. Explain that the results will decide who is in charge of our country. Be careful to keep the conversation age appropriate. Older children may want or need more details.

• Listen: Keep the conversation going and along your child to speak their mind and share their feelings. Encourage your children to ask questions. We get to model what it means to be a good listener for our children and what a perfect time to do that.

• Share: Talk about values that are important to your family. Most importantly model for your children that it is ok to have different opinions from our friends and families. It is important that children learn to respect others feelings and be ok with those differences.

It’s a stressful time to be a parent but know you aren’t alone. Talk about this with your spouse and friends! Let’s all engage in healthy conversation and discussion as we mold and shape the leaders of the future! You’ve got this!