While leaving a busy fast-food restaurant, a man nearly collides with my car and honks angrily. I yield the right of way, and as I pull out, I notice a distinct bumper sticker. “Naturally, he’s a supporter of that controversial candidate,” I remark.
“What’s a supporter of that candidate?” my 6-year-old, Max, inquires.
Uh-oh.
I explain that a supporter is someone who backs a particular person for president. Max is somewhat familiar with the idea of a president, so he asks who this individual is. I believe in being truthful with my kids, which requires more nuance than simply stating, “He’s a Republican.”
So, I tell him that this candidate is someone with an immense amount of wealth who rarely uses it for the benefit of others. He makes disparaging remarks about women and people from various backgrounds. In fact, he harbors such animosity towards immigrants that he proposes building a wall to keep them out. He even suggested violent actions against his opponent, which is absolutely unacceptable. His hairstyle resembles a distressed animal. In my political viewpoint, this candidate exhibits poor character and frequently misrepresents the truth.
I further explain that some of his supporters can be even more extreme. They gather in large groups where they shout intolerant phrases and use offensive language towards people of color. They advocate for jailing or even harming his opponent. Some supporters boldly wear T-shirts that express violent sentiments. They claim they want to “take back America” from individuals like us who believe in using government resources to support vulnerable populations, including families and the environment. Their anger stems from feeling powerless.
I mention that we support a different candidate—really, any candidate other than him. Max processes this information with a few nods, indicating he has no further questions. I find myself wanting to elaborate on the candidate’s negative views towards immigrants or questionable business practices, but I recognize that my son doesn’t need all the details. How much information is too much?
I am committed to being honest with my children about political matters. They should understand the political landscape and be aware of my opinions, and I believe we should also provide a brief perspective on opposing views, without feeling the need to be impartial. As they grow, they will have the opportunity to research candidates and form their own opinions.
However, I also know they don’t need to know everything. For instance, I won’t delve into inappropriate debates or childish insults that have surrounded this candidate. While I might humorously critique his hairstyle, I won’t drag the conversation into inappropriate territory.
I truly resent that I have to discuss such absurdities with my kids. If a different candidate had been nominated, I could have explained their policies in a way a child could grasp. Instead, we find ourselves missing out on a chance for meaningful political dialogue—because there are certain things I simply cannot share. Just like the situation surrounding this candidate, it’s a frustrating reality.
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In conclusion, discussing political figures with children can be challenging, requiring a balance of honesty and age-appropriate content. It’s vital to foster understanding while shielding them from the more disturbing aspects of political discourse.
Keyphrase: Explaining Politics to Children
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