Building the world we want to see
Tuesday marked the end of a divisive election season in the U.S. It also marked a new beginning.
At this new beginning, we know that we — and all the kids in our lives — need more kindness, empathy, and inclusivity. And we know that much of the dialogue surrounding this election has lacked these things, has been harmful for kids, and is not just going to go away.
Like many of you, we have questions about how to talk to kids about all of this. We don’t have all the answers but wanted to send along a few things that we found helpful in hopes that they might be helpful for you and your family, too:
- Kid President creator Brad Montague asked how people will talk to their kids about the election and got a range of responses.
- Ali Michael, Ph.D., teacher educator, advises we should first tell kids, “We’ll protect them.”
- Dana Bash, CNN’s chief political correspondent, and the mother of a 5-year-old son, explains this is how democracy works.
- L.A. Times writer Michelle Maltaise shares that in her politically divided home you vote, speak up, and respect one another.
- These books help kids identify and share their feelings.
- In the spirit of respecting one another, we’ll also be turning to books that spark kindness, empathy, and inclusivity.
Here’s to creating a kind, empathetic, and inclusive future across the country and globe — together.