How to Explain Elections to Kids: Tips and Tricks

Divisive politics and polarizing figures, such as Donald Trump, can challenge family dynamics in ways that reach beyond election cycles. The 2024 US Election was heated: in some cases, it lead to the end of friendships and even marriages. The outcome, of electing Donald Trump again as president (and all the it will entail), a convicted felon who’s facing further criminal indictments, shocked half of the country and much of the world.

When household members have differing political views, discussions about leaders who stir strong emotions or adopt controversial policies can lead to tension, arguments, and even misunderstandings among family members.

For parents, managing these dynamics is especially challenging, as they try to model respectful discourse, while also helping children understand and engage with current events.

Political division can disrupt the family environment by injecting stress and anxiety around topics that frequently surface in news, social media, and conversations outside the home. In extreme cases, polarizing politics may influence how families interact with extended relatives and friends, creating feelings of isolation or strain during gatherings and holidays.

For parents striving to maintain a supportive and harmonious household, it becomes crucial to set boundaries, encourage respectful discussion, and find ways to emphasize shared values over political differences.

Navigating the world of politics with children can be challenging, especially when the elected leader’s views or behavior stand in stark contrast to the values you try to instill at home. How do you talk to your kids about respecting leadership, democracy, and differing viewpoints while also helping them understand why certain beliefs or behaviors are at odds with your family’s values? Here’s how to approach this sensitive topic thoughtfully and constructively.

1. Begin with a Foundation of Respect for Democracy

First, explain the basics of democracy and why elections matter. You might say, “In a democracy, everyone gets a chance to choose who leads our country. Sometimes the person we hope will win doesn’t, but the ability to choose is an important right.” This reinforces the value of participation and respect for democratic systems, regardless of outcomes.

For younger children, a simple analogy might help: “Imagine if your class got to vote on a new activity. Some kids might pick something different than what you’d like, but you’d still respect their choice because everyone had a say.”

2. Emphasize Family Values

While it’s important to respect the democratic process, it’s equally essential to affirm your family’s values. Kids need to understand that the values they learn at home guide them through tough decisions, even if society or leaders sometimes don’t align with them.

You could say, “Our family believes in treating everyone with respect, being kind, and helping people in need. Even if someone in power doesn’t act that way, it doesn’t change what we believe in or how we treat others.” By discussing values, you’re giving your children a moral compass they can carry forward.

3. Address Conflicting Views with Compassionate Honesty

When a leader’s views or policies conflict with what you teach at home, honesty with age-appropriate explanations is key. Discuss the issues with care, aiming to inform without instilling fear or hatred. For instance:

• On Issues Like Immigration or Economic Policy: “Some people believe our country would be better if we changed the way we help people coming from other countries or the way we spend money on certain things. Our family believes that helping people who are struggling is important, so we might not agree with this approach. It’s okay to disagree, but it’s also good to understand other people’s ideas and be kind, even if we see things differently.”
• On Issues Like Abortion: For older kids who may understand complex social issues, you could explain that people have very different beliefs about personal rights and choices, often influenced by religion, personal experience, or culture. “Our family believes in people having the freedom to make decisions about their bodies, but some people have other beliefs. We can respect their right to think differently, even if we don’t agree.”

4. Confronting Negative Character or Criminal Convictions

One of the hardest things to explain is when a leader’s personal behavior or character seems inconsistent with their position. If accusations or convictions against a leader come up, it’s important to explain that no one is above the law and that integrity matters.

You might say, “Leaders should be examples of good behavior, and it’s disappointing when they don’t act that way. Being in charge doesn’t mean they’re perfect, but it does mean they have to take responsibility if they’ve hurt others or done something wrong. We believe that everyone should be treated fairly, and that includes leaders.”

This conversation can teach your child about accountability and the importance of character while also acknowledging that leaders are human and subject to the same standards of behavior as anyone else.

5. Highlighting the Importance of Critical Thinking

Children learn valuable lessons when we teach them to think critically, even about those in authority. You could encourage them by saying, “It’s important to ask questions and think about what people do, not just what they say. Leaders might say things we agree with, but their actions show us who they really are.”

Empowering children with critical thinking skills not only helps them understand political nuances but also prepares them to analyze and navigate complex issues as they grow.

6. Find Ways to Make a Positive Impact

Finally, if the election result feels troubling to you or your children, talk about ways to make a difference. Encourage your child to engage in small acts of kindness, volunteer work, or community projects. “We might not agree with everything a leader does, but we can still make our community a better place in our own way.”

Showing your children how to take positive action instills a sense of agency, reassuring them that while they can’t control every decision, they can still contribute meaningfully to society.

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Conclusion

Explaining difficult political outcomes to children is a challenge, but it’s also an opportunity to model respectful discourse, uphold your family values, and foster critical thinking. You may not be able to change the leader or the policies they promote, but you can equip your children with the skills and compassion they’ll need to understand and make their own positive impact in the world.