My two older children were just 6 and 3 when their dad and I signed on as volunteers with a major election campaign. They helped hold signs at street corners, proudly wore our candidate’s button, and marched in the parade of state delegates with us. They were learning about politics firsthand and continue to take a strong, active interest, knocking on doors and planting lawn signs in the yard.
News about the 2024 election is everywhere and even young children see and overhear snippets of information. While we might think they have little interest in the topic, a survey by KidsHealth.org found that 75% of school-age kids believe the election will affect them. That means they are listening and making judgments about how their lives might be changed by the outcome.
Children’s interest creates an opportunity for parents and caregivers to talk about election issues and your values. Identify what you like about the candidates you support. Share what you don’t like about other candidates in the race. Focus on policy positions and what you expect from a good leader. Encourage kids to learn more about the candidates and note their own likes and dislikes.
Keep your comments respectful. While it’s appropriate to talk about a candidate’s character and reputation, do so following the same rules you expect children to use when talking about other people. Model ways to hold others accountable for their actions without belittling or demonizing them. Say: I really don’t like how [candidate] talks about immigrants as if they are objects instead of people. I believe everyone deserves care and respect. Or say: I am really upset that [candidate] refused to take a stand on the war in Gaza. I think it shows a lack of courage.
Sometimes, election rhetoric can prompt children to feel anxious about the future. Reassure kids and help them put worrisome issues in perspective. Encourage them to share their concerns. Explain that candidates sometimes exaggerate problems to make a case for why they should be elected. Be honest about how economic, environmental, or other policies might affect your family or community and also about how you and others are working to reduce any negative effects.
This particular national election may also prompt children to ask questions we feel uncomfortable answering, such as, “Daddy, what’s Roe v. Wade?” or “MeMaw, why hasn’t a woman ever been president?” Approach difficult questions with honesty and restraint. With young children, offer a simple, direct answer, such as “Roe v. Wade is a court case about who should be involved in making medical decisions” or “In the past, many people thought men were better leaders than women, but now lots of people think women can be strong leaders too.” Then follow the child’s lead, answering subsequent questions in the same way. With older children, provide more specific information in short chunks that respond to the particular questions they have. Offer to do some research together if they are especially interested in a topic.
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