Introduction of children to government and politics can be exciting, particularly when they realize that even their small decisions and ideas can have significant consequences.
Keep in mind that children may hold different opinions than you, so it’s important to encourage them to read a variety of sources about politics and consider different points of view.
What is Politics?
Politics involves decisions made by multiple individuals or groups; from an individual deciding how to spend their money or an entire country choosing its leaders. Politics is the study of government and power relations.
Politics may seem too serious for young children, but it’s essential that they begin learning about it early. Doing so will increase their knowledge base while encouraging social responsibility.
What is Voting?
Voting allows individuals to express their ideas about what actions their government leaders should take on their behalf, making it an integral component of democracy.
Some voters select a political party because their beliefs align with theirs on certain issues; others choose a candidate because they believe that person will make the best choices for their community.
Not everyone is able to make it out on election day for various reasons such as illness, disability or being away on vacation; those individuals can still vote with an absentee ballot.
Why is Voting Important?
Voting gives citizens the power to communicate their desires to their government. If they feel their taxes are too high, for instance, they can vote to lower them; or if their community requires additional services, they can vote for someone who promises to invest funds there.
Kids can help facilitate political discussions by emphasizing that voting is their civic duty and that others have fought hard for this right. Furthermore, it’s essential to teach children how to conduct research by reading books or using news sources with varied viewpoints.
What is Government?
Government is an elaborate system of laws and rules created by and for its citizens, designed to maintain stability and provide security; for example, fire departments respond quickly when fires start while police departments arrest criminals. Furthermore, governments provide services like public education and transportation as well as food, housing and care for elderly residents.
The United States government consists of three branches: legislative, executive and judicial. Each plays an essential role in national leadership as detailed by the Constitution.
What is the Difference Between Local and National Government?
Although most countries possess some form of local government, the United States stands out as being unique with a national government, 50 state governments, and 85,000 local government units. While many individuals may not take an interest in politics or local affairs themselves, these people play an invaluable role in keeping streets safe, providing public services, addressing drug related problems like crime and poverty issues as well as improving education systems.
People living in the US must abide by laws at all levels of government – federal, state and local. Most Americans hold more favorable opinions of their local and state governments than of the federal one.
How do Politics Affect Us?
Young children often understand how politics impacts things they see around them, such as schools, roads and parks. They also enjoy hearing how different values lead to decisions that won’t satisfy everyone.
Discussing local politics with children using material specifically created for this age range is a fantastic way to spark dialogue and teach how to be thoughtful when debating an opposing viewpoint.
How do Politics Change Over Time?
Politics may seem like an adult affair, but children do show an interest in political matters. Children can be fascinated by signs protesting election results or veterans handing out poppies; or be alarmed at any mudslinging and bullying that takes place during political campaigns.
Introduce children to politics can be challenging. Youngsters may struggle with understanding laws that are unfamiliar to them; therefore, focus on topics they are interested in rather than getting bogged down in legislative details.
How do Politics Affect the World?
Politics is an engaging topic for children, and the idea that they have an impactful voice in society can be captivating. Watching political news together or reading newspapers designed for kids are great ways to open discussions on this topic.
Preschool-age children can begin discussing topics like fairness and politics at an early age. They can also gain an insight into how their local council makes decisions that affect them personally, such as whether to repair a pothole or spend money on new playground equipment.
How do Politics Affect Our Life?
Politics may seem foreign and distant to children. It can be hard for them to grasp that laws are created by humans who then may have unintended negative repercussions for both people and animals alike.
Talking openly and nonjudgmentally about politics with your child can help them form their own beliefs and opinions on politics and government – reading books or visiting websites from reputable sources is an excellent place to start!
