Should Children Be More or Less Aware of Politics?
The debate around whether children should be more or less aware of politics primarily revolves around the question of when and to what extent young individuals should engage with political discussions.
Age-Appropriate Political Awareness for Teens
For teenagers aged 13 to 18, it is beneficial to ensure they are knowledgeable enough to avoid political illiteracy. This age group is capable of understanding complex political issues and is often passionate about current events. When a child shows an interest in politics at a younger age, it can also be valuable. However, this interest should not be forced, especially before the age of 13. As a parent, the priority should be to provide an environment where unbiased political education is possible from an early age. The key, however, is to avoid indoctrinating children with one-sided views. Black and white mindsets do not serve well in the complexity of political discourse.
Introducing Politics to Young Children
The role of a parent is to gradually introduce children to various societal topics as they grow. For instance, at 3 years old, a child would likely not be aware of the Kennedy-Nixon race. By 6th grade, children can engage in more sophisticated political discussions. In a sixth-grade class, for example, children can be divided into pro-Humphrey and pro-Nixon sides, studying each candidate and their stances, and even campaigning. This approach not only makes learning about politics fun but also introduces children to the concept of democracy and the importance of understanding different viewpoints.
Proper Level of Discussion
When discussing politics with young children, it is crucial to match the complexity of the conversation to the child's developmental capacity. For a 7-year-old, discussions about sex and drug policies might be inappropriate, but issues like police issues or racism can still be addressed. The goal is to help children rise to meet the challenges posed by these conversations, preparing them for life as adult contributors to society. It is important to use common sense and adjust the discussions to the child's level, ensuring that they can understand and engage with the topics.
Parental Role in Childhood Politics
Parents play a crucial role in educating their children about politics. By keeping the conversation within the bounds of their understanding, parents can guide their children in forming their own views. If left to teachers or other authorities, the child may not receive the same guidance and support that comes from a parent. For instance, in the 1950s, high school teachers were not permitted to teach economics, leading to concerns that this might make students feel mean. However, introducing concepts like economics and scarcity might also teach children valuable lessons about self-reliance and resource management, as seen in the phrase ‘root hog or die.’
By engaging in political discussions with their children at appropriate levels and teaching them to think critically, parents can help prepare their children to become well-rounded, informed adults in an increasingly complex world.