What to Tell Our Children About Democracy and Hope After the Election

In the wake of a deeply divisive election, our responsibility as parents is to guide our children with compassion and hope, helping them navigate their emotions, understand the importance of democracy, and find their voices in shaping a future that reflects our values.

Here are some age-appropriate ways to discuss the recent election, with strategies to inspire hope. These approaches can help guide our children through this moment, enabling them to understand and find their voices in the face of change.

Talking with Kids About the Election Results

Raising Resilient Kids in a Divided America

What do I tell my kids? We woke up Wednesday to the news that the country had reelected Donald Trump. (Though not surprising results to over half of Americans who voted for him.)

To be blunt, I am numb. How could they put him back into the power of authority? I’m shocked so many Americans would vote for an indicted felon as our leader.

Interestingly, his opposition did not say there was fraud, did not incite a coup, and did not motivate the invasion and destruction of public buildings. What a difference, right?

It’s our duty as Americans to accept election results. But it doesn’t mean my standards have to change. Our vice president said it perfectly in her concession speech…

I do not concede the fight that fueled this campaign. The fight for freedom, for opportunity, for fairness and the dignity of all people, a fight for the ideals at the heart of our nation, the ideals that reflect America at our best,” – Kamala Harris

I’m heartbroken to know that even children see Trump as someone of questionable ethics in his choices. After the election, they see half a country full of people willing to accept these flaws and allow him to make choices for the “good of the group”.

@sweeper698 Its been a rough week. And I couldn’t figure out why I was SO beartbroken and disappointed over the #election2024 . But now I know. #election2024🇺🇸 #trump ♬ original sound – Sweeper

After finding it hard to put all of this into words, Sweeper698 on TikTok summed up how I and so many of my family members and friends have been feeling this past week.

Dan Rather said it clearly… “It’s about me, as a patriot, rejecting a cheating, lying, racist, treasonous, fascist, and vile man who attacks the free press and wants to lead the country I love. It’s really that simple.”

What’s shocking is that over half the American people said they don’t care.

A quick watch of Seth Meyers detailed list of Trump’s Track Record and I thought it was clear why he wasn’t a good fit. Why was Harris the better choice of the two? Do they honestly think he’ll keep his voters in mind when signing policy and adding people to his cabinet?

What to Tell Our Children About Democracy and Hope After the Election

I get it, as a nation many American citizens feel the weight of inflation. Empty pockets and household debts are stacking up for many individuals and families. Even in 2020, the real median wage of the bottom 90 percent is stuck nearly where it was in the early 1990s, though the economy was more than twice as large. Even though some economists are sharing 2024 wages and employment rates are up. I’ll be frank, I don’t think Trump was the answer to improve this.

How can the rest of the world take us seriously anymore? The damage they just potentially unleashed is immeasurable and will be felt for generations to come. This election will be felt for generations. And not in a good way. They don’t know what they’ve done. It’s alarming to see what people will do in the name of money and power.

Sorry to tell them but they got scammed.

Talking with Your Child About Election Results

How do we talk with our kids about accepting the results and moving forward?

Talking to Kids About Election Results: Age-Appropriate Tips for Parents

Here’s how to start this conversation…

Ask them what they know first.
Have the conversation more than once.
Ensure they feel safe.
Encourage them to express how it makes them feel.
Model coping skills for them.
Keep routines consistent.
Limit or avoid exposure to TV, News, Social Media, Online Platforms.
Find a way for them to feel empowered.

Talking to kids about election results can be a meaningful way to introduce them to civic responsibility, democracy, and empathy for differing viewpoints.

Here are some tips for different ages:

For Young Kids (Ages 4–7)

Keep It Simple: Use easy words and avoid complex political jargon. For instance, explain that people vote to choose leaders and that different leaders have different ideas.
Focus on Fairness and Respect: Explain that even if people don’t all agree, it’s important to treat each other kindly.
Answer Questions Gently: Kids may have questions about why people are upset or happy. Let them know that it’s okay to feel emotions about important things and that grown-ups are there to help keep them safe.

Here are some helpful books about our election process for kids.

parents-talking-to-daughters - The Educators' Spin On It

Talking with your child about the Presidential Election

For Elementary and Middle School Kids (Ages 8–12)

Discuss the Importance of Voting: Talk about how voting gives everyone a chance to have a say in decisions. You might even relate it to something they can understand, like class elections or family decisions.
Encourage Critical Thinking: Help them understand why people might have different opinions and that it’s okay to listen and learn from each other.
Explain Change and Compromise: This is a good opportunity to talk about why leaders have term limits and why leadership changes happen regularly.

For Teens (Ages 13+)

Talk About Issues and Values: Many teens are already forming their own opinions on social or political issues. Discuss how leaders make decisions on these matters and the impact those decisions can have.
Encourage Civic Engagement: Let them know that their voices matter and they can get involved by learning more, discussing issues, or even volunteering.
Model Respectful Discourse: Show them that people can respectfully disagree. This can help them navigate challenging conversations as they start expressing their own beliefs.

No matter the age, the key is to provide a safe, open space for them to ask questions and share their thoughts.

We’ve all had a chance to read the Results from the 2024 Presidential Election from the Associated Press. Did you take a look at them with your child? It’s a great opportunity to discuss statistics and explore different ways the information is presented.

The 2024 National Exit Polls results are also eye opening. Some of the questions asked would make for good dinner topics. It’s important our children learn how to express themselves and be aware of current events. DOGOnews and Time for Kids are a few current events news sites for kids.

Civic and Leadership Engagement

There are organizations your child can become involved in like

These activities are generally aimed at developing leadership skills, promoting academic achievement, and encouraging active participation in school and community events.

Parents the next step we can take together is advocacy… Tips for Advocating for our Children’s Tomorrow

Getting Involved in Political Issues Through Advocacy and Marches

Building a Better Future: Taking Action for Our Children and Our Country

Frankly, it feels like there’s not much we can do now. Many citizens are starting to disengage after the elections, there are many ways we check out. Whatever disengagement looks like to you, it plays right into his hands. It’s time to tune in, not out.

Here’s how we step forward friends…

We now understand the challenges that lie ahead. Look at the candidates who campaigned on both sides of the political spectrum.

Who represents all Americans with their demeanor and values?
Who is working on policies that bring unity, both at the state level and in the capital?
Are they collaborating across party lines to make a positive impact for everyone?
Who has the potential to bring us together as a nation?

It’s time to start encouraging and preparing these individuals to step into more influential roles. We hope some of them have the qualities needed to run for the presidency in the future.

Stay engaged in politics—this is just the beginning.

Kamala Harris clearly stated in her concession speech.

Quote about stars by Vice President Kamala Harris

Let us fill the sky with the light of a brilliant, brilliant billion of stars. The light, the light of optimism, of faith, of truth and service. And may that work guide us, even in the face of setbacks toward the extraordinary promise of the United States of America. – Kamala Harris

Our government was designed with a system of checks and balances. Every elected official in the Senate and the House is there to represent you and make the best decisions for your local community. They are paid to serve you.

Hold them accountable, and if they don’t, vote them out.

Trump win ‘gives us a really big to-do list’ to defend democracy – Rachel Maddow MSNBC

United States Capital Building in Washington, D.C.

Get the names and contact information of the elected politicians who represent you on the federal, state, and local levels. (Look them up there)

Don’t be afraid to reach out, even if you’re emailing them about a positive thing.

Have a question, concern, or suggestion for your local or state leaders? Give them a call! When things are going in an ideal way, it just might be the time to Create a Petition.

Be a voice for our children, for our bodies, for our neighbors, for the less fortunate, for equality, for fairness, for love.

“Continue to do the good work. Continue to build bridges not walls. Continue to lead with compassion. Continue the demanding work of liberation for all. Continue to dismantle broken systems, large and small. Continue to set the best example for the children. Continue to be a vessel of nourishing joy.” – Venice Williams

Pay attention to where your local politicians and campaign donors stand on these issues…

Economy
Health Care
Climate Change
Immigration
Infrastructure
Gun Policy
Abortion
Racial and Ethnic Inequality
Foreign Policy
Supreme Court Appointments
Crime

One important note… Paying attention to who donates to political campaigns can reveal potential influences on a candidate’s policies and priorities, helping voters make informed decisions. The Federal Elections Committee shares individuals who have made contributions to federally registered political committees. They also share campaign finance data to view publically.

Take moment to glance at this recent American Values Survey – Challenges to Democracy: The 2024 Election and the 2024 National Exit Polls Results.

As we move forward, it’s important to consider different perspectives. Strive to include a diverse range of opinions and backgrounds within your circle of friends. Watch this video from Mattissuperman for more on politics and friendships.

While raising a family can present common struggles, each of us also faces unique challenges. It is our responsibility to ensure our voices are heard.

As U.S. Senator Cory Booker of New Jersey stated… We start now!

Citizens Expressing Unity Through Advocacy

Tips for Advocating for our Children’s Tomorrow

Organizations to Donate Time and Money To

Here are some impactful organizations you might consider supporting with your time or donations, as they work to uphold democracy, justice, and freedom:

The battle starts now in the courts. We need to fund all the organizations that will fight back as they try to implement Project 2025. There is still a Constitution and there are judges not appointed by Trump. Every step must be challenged. But they will need money. We need to think of ways to help fund the fight.

Here are a few people you may find helpful as we navigate the political landscape…

A mentor shared this message… “It’s important to remember that your country did not choose peace, kindness, and sanity, but you can. It becomes more important than ever that you commit to those values, come what may. Circumstances change. Keep your commitment to your core values permanent, and your inner life will remain stable and satisfying.”

We hold the line… for our children, for our bodies, for our neighbors, for the less fortunate, for equality, for fairness, for love.

As we navigate this challenging time, let us remember that our influence as parents and role models is profound. By engaging our children in conversations about empathy, civic responsibility, and the importance of advocating for justice, we empower the next generation to be thoughtful, compassionate leaders.

This is not the end, but the beginning of a journey to shape a more equitable future—one conversation, one action, and one vote at a time.

Together, we can build a world our children are proud to inherit.

Helpful Reads About the 2024 Election…

As we face this pivotal moment in our nation’s history, our children are watching and learning from us. They are absorbing how we respond to challenges, how we treat one another despite differences, and how we stay committed to our values. By having open conversations, standing up for what’s right, and working together, we can inspire hope and encourage the next generation to lead with courage and integrity.

The journey to a brighter, more inclusive future starts today—one conversation, one action, and one hopeful step at a time.

You may also find this helpful for your child…

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What to Tell Our Children About Democracy and Hope After the Election

Raising Resilient Kids in a Divided America