Mindful Parenting: Politics

Children aren't immune to the political arena. Given how much it's covered, and how frequently ads air, even most preschoolers are likely aware that the U.S. is about to have a presidential election. With discussions that often become heated, including negative ads and dire predictions should one candidate or the other win, the political landscape can be confusing or even frightening to the younger generation.

As parents, we have the perfect opportunity to introduce the idea of politics and debate to our children, and launching their personal journey toward being part of the democratic process. It's no small task to help children to understand the importance of politics and debate while reassuring them that they're safe?

According to Claire Haas, vice president of education, Kiddie Academy, "The key to making sense of the election is explaining politics in a way that a child can understand and digest. In fact, parents shouldn't miss this great opportunity to teach their families about expressing and respecting differing opinions."

Claire offers the following tips and election-related activities for children:

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.

Vote on it: Macaroni & cheese or tacos for dinner? Create a mock voting booth and ballots for each member of the family. When all the votes have been cast, tally the results and talk about the process and how it relates to choosing a president.

Dinnertime Debate: Give each member of the family 2 minutes over dinner to discuss why they prefer one candidate over the other. Be sure to include younger children - it may result in some unique perspectives. Children can practice important life skills, including active listening, respect for others and taking turns.

Provide Age-Appropriate Answers: Younger children may simply want to know what an election means, in the most basic terms. Older kids will likely want more details.

Explain Yourself: Particularly if you are passionate about the candidate you prefer, take the time to explain why. Defend your position, and what you like or don't like about each candidate. Encourage your kids to ask questions or choose a candidate they prefer, even if it's not the same as your own choice.

Write a Letter: Whether electronic or old-school ink and paper, writing a letter to a politician is a great way to demonstrate the democratic process, and the importance of sharing opinions. In an election year, it's likely your child will get a response.

President Barack Obama, The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500 (Or email the President.)

Romney for President, PO Box 149756, Boston, MA 02114-9756 (Or email Mitt Romney)

You can also find your local representatives by starting at www.(your state).gov.

To download more tips and ideas for introducing politics to children, parents can visit the Kiddie Academy Family Essentials blog.