How involved should your homeschool students be in political intrigues. In an election year it is difficult to keep the subject from the children, so perhaps it’s a good idea to teach them about exactly how the government works. The basic election process, and how they should choose which candidate deserves to be voted for. How do you help them make an informed decision when they finally do get to exercise their votes? Here are some tips to consider.
Give Them a Daily Dose of News
By letting them watch the same news on different channels you will allow them to see how different points of view may exist about the same topic. it will also allow them to be up to date with current affairs. Ask them to read newspapers, pursue blogs and get information from other high quality sources online. Have them learn between unsubstantiated rumors and actual facts. Teach them how facts may also be twisted to seem good or bad depending on the point of view of a political candidate.
Discuss the Process, Even if Its a Three Ring Circus
By speaking about what is happening you are educating your homeschool students. Have them read up on the candidates and issues and then have a debate in the homeschool classroom. Ask them to give their opinions on who should do well as an elected political representative and why. Make them think about what they would want their representatives in government to do. Get them to attend local political debates if possible, or at least hear a couple of candidates giving speeches on television.
Participate in the Actual Voting Yourself
Children always learn by example, so if you talk but don’t physically go and vote, they are going to think it’s not important enough. Be an actual participant in the elections yourself. It will allow your children to understand just how important the voice of every single person can be in an election. They will respect the democratic process more and yes they will be that much more willing to participate when they become eligible to actually vote for themselves.
