Talk with your kids about democracy
The lens of history
Scary as this may seem, it is time to talk with your children about how our democracy is threatened.
I know. I know. Those are strong words. I certainly am not suggesting that we ask first graders whether the president should have more power than Congress or the Supreme Court.
But I am looking through the lens of history. Things that seem unimaginable have happened through executive control of education systems. Hitler and Mussolini strengthened their hold through the indoctrination of youth. Without authority from Congress, the President has gutted the Department of Education, especially including the Office for Civil Rights, which enforces the rights of students. This is not OK.
Children are not born with democracy in their DNA.
It is our collective responsibility to ensure that each generation has the knowledge and skills necessary to support and preserve our democracy.
Political outreach to children is already underway. This image is an example from one of many political "Kid’s Guides" on the internet. Here's a quote from one of them:
“With the triumphant return of President Trump to the White House, Americans everywhere are celebrating his return and what it means for our nation. And, as our kids are the future of our country, it’s important for them to understand how Trump will make America great again. That’s why we created The Kids Guide to President Trump, and right now we’re giving it away for FREE!”
Are you surprised that this is a scam? Signing up for the "free" guide obligates you to an expensive subscription, and those who have fallen for it have had a hard time getting their money back! It's a shady business co-founded by Mike Huckabee.
Kids are taught about the Constitution in school
In elementary school, students should already have some basic knowledge about how our government is supposed to work. By the time they have completed 8th grade, they should know the basics of our constitutional democracy.
In the Ed100 blog
July 4 vs. January 6
For example, under California's History/Social Science frameworks, students in 8th grade are taught about separation of powers, checks and balances, the nature and purpose of majority rule, and the ways in which the American idea of constitutionalism preserves individual rights. Even before 8th grade, it would help for them to know that:
- The president is not a king.
- Laws are made by Congress, not the president.
- The President and his staff cannot refuse to follow court orders.
- Congress has the power to make spending decisions. The President does not have the right to refuse to implement them.
- The rights of students include freedom of speech.
Explain why you think it is important to understand what is happening in the country.
In age-appropriate language, discuss current events with them. I was going to say discuss it at the dinner table but you probably have a better shot at their attention as you drive to and from events.
As incidents challenge the principles of our democracy, discuss them. What do they think? How does that square with what they know about the constitution?
In the Ed100 blog
What is 'school choice' really about?
Discuss money for schools. Does their public school need more or less money? What do they think about cutting funding for their school to subsidize private schools?
Talk about the importance of voting. Can voting change public policy?
Ask about student activism. What would help you become more involved in issues that affect your school? Your community? Your country?
It’s up to us to preserve democracy for our children.
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Jeff Camp - Founder March 20, 2025 at 6:14 pm