The United States presidential election is exactly one week from today. While I don't discuss politics often here on the blog, I've always been a pretty political person. Growing up, my parents didn't hide their political views from me, but they shared in a way that educated me on the process rather than imposing their particular opinions. The older I got, the more I respected this. I remember being so excited to vote in my first election when I was 18. I did my research and I got involved, and I credit my parents for planting that seed in me.
When I became a parent myself a few years ago, I thought a lot about how I was going to introduce politics to my kids. And while Essley isn't even quite 3 years old, this particular election is so important that she's been aware of it on at least some level. Robbie and I have also been discussing ways we can teach her about politics, but it's difficult to know the best way to approach heavier topics when they're that young. So I was pretty thrilled when I was shown this awesome infographic, put together by the experts at Kiddie Academy, that discusses how to talk to your kids about politics. And in case some of you are in the same boat, I thought it would be cool to share it here as well.
I really love tip #3. Even at such a young age, Essley is already passionate about some issues, like the environment. (She's a mini eco-warrior!) We're also able to talk to her and get her opinion on issues that directly impact her, like new projects her school and our park district consider implementing that require votes. Tip #7 is great too. I've taken Essley (and even baby Emmett) to vote with me, and through the act of that, she realizes what an important responsibility it is. And she gets all sorts of excited to wear an "I Voted" sticker for the day. I'm looking forward to utilizing even more of these tips (like #6; three cheers for letter writing!) as she gets older.
After receiving this infographic, I also wanted to learn more about Kiddie Academy and the education based child care they provide. Essley is in preschool a couple of mornings a week, but I have considered adding in a day or two of supplemental care a week in the late winter and early spring when Robbie is on the road pretty nonstop and it's more difficult for me to find time to work. If I do put her (and possibly Emmett) in day care, I want to be assured that they're learning and having active play time that will help them grow. I really love Kiddie Academy's "Life Essentials" curriculum, which focuses on social and emotional character education, and physical and cognitive outcomes which are aligned with state preschool learning standards. That's important to me. They also focus on developmentally appropriate activities and experiences. And they have locations all over the country, which is really nice. I'm definitely considering them - and in the meantime, I'm utilizing the great tips they provide!
How do you teach your kids about politics? Did you grow up in a family where political topics were discussed?
This post is in partnership with Kiddie Academy. Thank you for supporting the brands that help make Bubby and Bean possible.
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These are good tips. I especially like number 3, I think picking a cause for kids to get passionate about helps make them understand why we care.
ReplyDeleteGreat ideas and that picture of Essley is so adorable!
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