Politics: a topic too important to be ignored, yet simultaneously often too controversial to be brought up at the dinner table. As Americans, we all know that understanding the current political climate of our country is vital in making informed democratic decisions, such as knowing who to vote for or what propositions to support. Yet, even though it is so vital to understand, it is seldom openly talked about. People shy away from discussing politics because of the way opposing political views can lead to turmoil and the destruction of certain relationships. It can feel so much easier to simply avoid the topic all together, than to bring up a topic that is a potential source of discontent in a relationship. However, while this avoidance of controversial political discussions may seem like an appealing trajectory, it actually can lead to more harm than good for future generations, considering the influence that adult behavior has on the lives of children. When children see that the politically opinionated adults in their lives are afraid to bring up politics in discussions, or when children are told to not express their political views in front of their friends or superiors, that is a signal to them that politics are evil and malicious. If they go through life with that mindset, it is likely that when the time comes for them to act as a politically informed citizen they will avoid taking the time to learn about the political issues they’re taking stances on, if at all. This is not a safe or secure future to be creating for the future generations of our nation. It is important that, for the sake of the posterity of America, politics become less stigmatized and more widely talked about.
So, how do we ensure that the next generation is educated and ready for the future political climate?
This task is much easier said than done. Teaching children about the current political climate has to be done delicately, and of course there are certain topics that need to be abridged to remain appropriate and comprehensible for kids. Luckily, there are many wonderful educational children's books that refrain from demonstrating any sorts of political bias, and create a fun and understandable resource for children to learn about politics. These books are not set to impose certain political agendas, nor create the understanding that certain beliefs are better than others. They’re simply children’s books that explain how the government works, how elections work, the actions of different political activists throughout history, and ways in which children can be politically active. Here are a few of my favorite options:
1. Sofia Valdez, Future Prez by Andrea Beaty
The story of a young girl who takes on her City Hall, to try and change something of importance to her! This is a great book to inspire children to be politically active, and express their political wants openly.
2. The President of the Jungle by Paula Desgualdo & Pedro Markun
This adorable non-partisan story teaches children how a democratic political election works, through a plot starring jungle animals and captivating illustrations. It also includes a glossary explaining election vocabulary!
3. For Which we Stand by Jeff Foster
This comic-book style story explains important political concepts such as the three branches of American government, and the electoral college. It is incredibly engaging and informative!
4. Kid Activists: True Tales of Childhood from Champions of Change by Robin Stevenson
This short chapter book tells the stories of historical political leaders and activists, such as Rosa Parks and Frederick Douglass, as they were children. These fascinating stories can show children how anyone can become politically active, and these influential historical figures were once children, too!
5. W is for Welcome: A Celebration of America’s Diversity by Brad Herzog
Following the alphabet, this book uses poetry and expository text to celebrate America's diverse population and showcase the remarkable achievements and contributions that have come from American’s of all different cultures, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds.
These are only a taste some children’s books that can be utilized to teach kids about political topics and processes, in a gentle and appropriate manner. We are all guilty of underestimating the strength and potential of children, as we often deem them too little or immature to start learning about contentious concepts in the world of politics. However, now more than ever, it is essential to bring kids up to be politically informed citizens, prepared to change the world for the better.
Comments