Watching the presidential debates with your kids
Oct 03, 2012 2:00 PM by Monica Beyer
 Presidential debates are a golden opportunity to educate and interact with your children on the subject of American government using a real-time current event. Inspire their interest in governmentHelp them form their own opinions this year by watching them together. The first presidential debate takes place tonight at 9 p.m. eastern time on the campus of the University of Denver in Denver, Colorado. President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney are lined up to discuss the topic of domestic policy in a debate where the candidates will be able to respond to each question. What can your kids get out of watching the presidential debates with you, and how should you approach the event with them? Keep it neutralEven though you may have an opinion about Democrats, Republicans, Obama, Romney or politics in general, try to avoid voicing your opinion one way or the other before the event. Instead, focus on letting your kids know that you’re looking forward to learning what they think.
Avoid punditsMuch like in professional sports, there will be televised discussion both before and after the debates, with media and experts offering their own take on the event. As their opinions may color those of your kids’, only turn to the debate once it starts.
Talk about itMake sure your kids know that they can ask questions during the debate — in other words, don’t insist on silence while the candidates are speaking. Transcripts should be posted at a later date if you want to go back and catch up on what was said.
Have the internet readyQuestions can and probably will pop up that you may not have a quick answer for, so keep your laptop, tablet or phone nearby for quick internet searches. When the debate is overAfter the debate, turn off your television or radio and discuss what transpired with your kids. Let them express their opinions first — if you start, they may feel pressure that their thoughts should mirror your own. Try to flesh out their answers if they don't say much at first. Ask why they felt that President Obama said this, or Governor Romney said that. What helped sway their opinion? Relish the momentCurrent events, such as a presidential debate, are a prime moment to really get on your children’s level and help them understand the importance of our government. "It's OK to have healthy debates on subjects that influence the country's operations."
“Children benefit from learning that there are different opinions on how our country should be run and that it's OK to have healthy debates on subjects that influence the country's operations,” shared Rachelle, mother of two. “They also need to understand that despite the differences in opinions, people are able to work together and accomplish great things for our country.” More on kids and current eventsColorado Dark Knight theater shootings: How to talk to your kids about violence
|
Trending StoriesFollow SheKnows
|
In defense of Justin Bieber
Vince Vaughn gets bad news in...
SheKnows has "epic" chat with the...
Music review: Prince "Fixurlifeup"
What to expect on The...
Mike gets a rude awakening in...
Comments on "Watching the presidential debates with your kids"
+ Add Comment