Kids and Politics: When Do They Start Learning?

Believe it or not, even kids as young as 5 have some idea about presidents and elections! A study showed that many kids between 5 and 11 could name the presidential candidates back in 2016. This might come as a surprise, but kids are like little sponges, soaking up info from adults, friends, and even social media. So, what's the best way for parents to handle this? Experts say it's important to answer questions and calm fears, but not to push your own views. You can use everyday moments, like watching the news together, to start conversations. And don't worry, you don't have to get too detailed. Just stick to the basics, like how elections work and why they matter. For older kids, it's okay to talk about specific policies, but try to help them see different points of view. And always encourage them to check their facts! When it comes to social media, it's a good idea to ask your teen what they've seen online. This way, you can correct any wrong information and teach them how to find reliable sources. It's all about guiding them to make their own informed decisions. After all, they'll be voting soon enough!