BONUS! How do I explain this election to my 12 year old?
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Dear Grace,
My daughter is 12 and this is the first election that she is able to sort of wrap her head around. I’m careful with how much I leave the news on at home since there is so much nastiness that I don’t want her exposed to. She loves her history class and is really excited to follow along with the election, but with all of the news about the conventions and nominations, I don’t feel like I have a clear enough grasp on things to explain them to her. She learned in school about elections and the presidents, but none of that really prepared her for how intense this year has turned out to be. How can I talk to her about the election in a way that explains all the news and nastiness without totally crushing her excitement for the process?
– Misinformed Mama, Michigan
Dear Misinformed Mama,
I hope that my advice last month gave you and your daughter a starting point for breaking down the news that keeps buzzing around this year’s election. Now that early voting is open in many states and the campaigns have really put the pedal to the metal, I’m sure the two of you have lots to talk about!
At the end of my column from last month, I asked other readers to share a few words for young people like your daughter hoping to understand the intense (and sometimes strange) political climate we’re facing. As always, their words of wisdom were too good to keep to myself.
Here is some of the insight and advice your fellow readers had for you, your daughter, and millions of other young people out there:
“Stick to the fun and excitement of it all right now. I went through this with my kids and we had our own election party with decorations and snacks. It’s also a good time to teach her how to be resourceful. Maybe do some Google-ing together, but I’d keep it simple and fun. If she happens to hear some gossip or the nasty stuff, be ready with your own research to respond or say ‘I don’t know, let’s find out together.’”
“Make sure you teach her that democracy is important and that country comes before all else. The other party isn’t our enemy, they’re just other people who love our country too and want to do things a different way. At the end of the day, we are all on the same team.”
“You may not agree with everyone, but please keep in mind that we all have our opinions, but when we choose a leader, we have to think of what is best for everyone, not just for a certain group. I would also say that the mudslinging and meanness is just devastating. It does not prove or solve anything. We need to stick to the subject at hand: doing what is best for everyone.”
“Wow, where to begin? I would start with city and state issues, teaching her about the officials we elect at these levels and what they have done. It’s easier to understand issues when you can see them at work and some of the national issues might be too complex for her to understand.”
“Well unfortunately there is competition in this political race. Candidates try to focus on the dirt on each candidate. Focus on what each candidate is going to do for you, if they are elected. First ask her to make a list of issues that she cares about. For example: education, healthcare, programs for the homeless, and foreign affairs. It isn’t right that these older adults are behaving like toddlers, something should be done about that. I would ask questions to the twelve-year-old, encourage them to share his or her beliefs and how they would vote if they were 18 this year. I would not force my beliefs!”
“I would tell her that politics is like a big, complicated conversation about how our country should run. There are different opinions on what is best for everyone, just like in a classroom where students might disagree on a game to play. It’s important to listen to different views, think about them, and decide what you believe is right. Being aware of what’s happening, asking questions, and talking about it with friends or family can help you understand it better. Remember, it’s okay to have your own opinions and to learn as you go!”
“This young lady should know that she is our future. She needs to realize that her voice is important and that she has as much right as anyone else to speak up.”
To sum it up, Misinformed Mama—focus on issues over drama, let the facts keep you both grounded, and have fun! While elections can be stressful for us grown ups, this is your daughter’s first experience watching one unfold and that’s exciting. We’re sending you and your daughter our best as the election season heats up, you’ve got this!
Grace and the Readers
