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10 Ways to Discuss Election Outcomes with Your Kids When You’re Disappointed
It was early morning, and I barely had enough sleep after a long night of watching the election results. My 5-year-old, Max, appeared at my bedside, looking concerned. “Mom, the candidate we wanted didn’t win,” he said, his face scrunched up in a mix of confusion and frustration—an expression I usually see when he’s asked to eat vegetables. It was 6 AM, and I needed to respond to this unexpected turn of events.
I already knew our candidate had lost; my husband and I had turned off the news after the concession speech, hoping to get some sleep. Instead, we lay awake, processing our feelings and wondering how to explain this to Max and his little sister, Lily.
Having worked in politically charged environments, the ups and downs of elections weren’t new to us. However, this outcome felt more significant; it wasn’t just about policies or job security. It was about the values we hope to instill in our children—values like equity, kindness, and inclusivity.
As I sat up, my heart heavy, I realized that this conversation was just the beginning. Here are 10 ways I plan to talk to my children about the election results while nurturing their understanding and resilience:
- You Are Loved and Important. The first step is to reassure our kids that they are cherished and that their feelings matter. They need to hear it from us—love and affirmation are essential.
- I Will Keep You Safe. During election cycles, fear can loom large. Assure your children that you will protect them, both physically and emotionally, guiding them through uncertainties.
- It’s Okay to Fail; We Will Rise Again. Acknowledge the disappointment openly. Show them that failure is a part of life and emphasize the importance of resilience. We can turn this setback into a learning opportunity.
- Honesty About Feelings is Key. Share your emotions about the election outcome. Let them see your vulnerability, and allow them to express their questions and concerns. This honesty fosters open communication.
- Discuss Societal Issues. Address the realities of sexism and racism that persist in society. It’s crucial to talk about the implications of these issues and how they affect everyone, including your children.
- Empower Girls to Dream Big. Reinforce the message that girls can achieve anything they set their minds to. Surround them with role models and encourage them to pursue their dreams, reminding them that we will keep fighting for equality.
- Civics Goes Beyond the Voting Sticker. Help your children understand that civic engagement is an ongoing process, not just something that happens every few years. Teach them about how elections work and the importance of being involved in their communities.
- Advocate for Human Rights. Use this moment as a teaching opportunity to instill the importance of standing up for human rights. Encourage your children to speak out against injustices and to be advocates for inclusivity.
- Engage with the Community. Change starts at home. Show your kids the value of being active in their communities, participating in local events, and helping those in need. Lead by example.
- Find Joy in Moving Forward. Life is unpredictable, but the love in our family remains constant. Teach your children about forgiveness and how to find happiness again, despite challenges. Joy is often found in the simplest moments together.
By embracing these conversations, we help our children understand that while elections can bring disappointment, there is always a path forward filled with hope and action. For more insights on navigating life’s challenges, you can check out this excellent resource on intrauterine insemination and explore more tips on home insemination, including the at-home insemination kit.
In summary, navigating election outcomes with our children requires love, honesty, and empowerment. By discussing our feelings and encouraging civic engagement, we help them grow into compassionate and informed individuals ready to make a positive impact.