American Politics - article by New Look 4 Article Every Hour

How do kids learn about and form opinions on American politics?

Most people believe that the world would be a dull place indeed, were everyone to hold the same opinions on anything. A healthy society needs diversity. Parents are well aware of the uniqueness of their children. One may be fascinated with nature, while another has tremendous artistic talent. We celebrate these differences. So it seems peculiar that, when it comes to American politics, we essentially tell our kids what to think.

Approximately half of the public actually exercises their right to vote. This means that the elected official actually enjoyed only about a quarter of the voting age public support required for them to win. This is not a true consensus. People complain about who gets elected despite their apathy when it comes to going to the voting booth. Society and the principles of true democracy would be better served if we encouraged real debate and understanding among our children, the future voters. Parroting a parent's opinion doesn't promote an understanding of, or any real interest in American politics.

Most parents do not take offense at their children's differing opinions and ideas on anything pertaining to education. Yet, when it comes to American politics, we often and unwittingly, force feed them with our take on the issues and candidates.

Here's an interesting experiment you might want to try for the next election. Local and state elections are good subjects, because the issues and candidates concern topics to which the kids can relate. For example, if water is being rationed in your area, your kids know that the lawn is turning brown and you get in a tizzy when they leave the water running or wash a single item in the washer. They have no idea why you get so upset.

However, there's a measure on the ballot to decide upon a solution. Here's an opportunity for a great lesson in American politics. Get online and have the kids do some investigation into the issue. Why is water being rationed? Perhaps a dam has been built, or it's due to drought conditions. How does this affect your community? Your household? Have the kids brainstorm their own solutions. Don't interfere with your own opinions. (You may be shocked to find that your kids might come up with an innovative, workable solution that's not been proposed.)

Next, go over the opposing views presented in the voter's guide so that they understand both sides. Explain that in American politics, this is the way issues are decided. Ask them which choice they would make and why. If they don't find either acceptable, find out what alternative idea might be better. This gives you the opportunity to explain how petitions work, as well as clarifying the trade-offs offered by the current measure.

One of your main objectives in this exercise is to teach kids to think for themselves and seek out the facts. This will serve them well in all facets of their lives. You might also inspire sufficient interest to go vote when they're of age.

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