Navigating Politics with Kindness During the Election Season
In the heat of political debates, practicing kindness is not only possible but essential. In the political arena, kindness can help bridge divides and create a more inclusive society. It allows us to engage in meaningful conversations and build connections despite our differences. In a time when the political climate could use a generous dose of compassion, let’s model empathy and kindness for our children. Don’t we all need a little extra kindness this election season?
Let’s lead the way for our children by practicing compassion, empathy and kindness throughout this election season. Here are some simple actions you and your family can take to make a positive impact over the next few months.
With gratitude,
– MiaLisa Millares, Executive Director
ACTIONS
Write Letters of Appreciation
Writing letters of appreciation to local elected officials, regardless of their political affiliation, can teach children the importance of respect and gratitude. Encourage your kids to express their thanks for the hard work these officials do for their community.
Share Your Opinion
Your opinion matters. Practice sharing your opinion so that your kids know how important it is to speak up on matters that are important. Check out this power of speaking up packet.
Random Acts of Kindness
Encourage your children to perform random acts of kindness for neighbors or strangers. Simple gestures like leaving a kind note, helping someone with groceries, or offering a smile can go a long way in fostering a kind community. Here are some ways to share kindness this summer.
Engage in Local and Global Challenges
Take all the energy and anxiety you may have around political issues and put it to good use by teaching your child how to engage as an active citizen. This packet helps to guide you.
Host a Community Kindness Day
Organize an activity related to kindness for National Night Out in your neighborhood. Activities can include making kindness rocks, creating thank-you cards for essential workers, or organizing a donation drive. This not only promotes kindness but also strengthens community bonds.
Practice Civil Disagreeing
Role-playing different scenarios can help children develop empathy and understanding. Discuss various political viewpoints and practice responding with kindness and respect. This activity can prepare kids to handle real-life situations with grace. Here are some resources to practice civil conversations.
Volunteer Together
Volunteering as a family for causes you care about can instill a sense of empathy and compassion in children. Whether it’s helping at a local food bank or participating in a community clean-up, these activities show kids that they can make a positive impact. Check out our free volunteer listings.
CONVERSATIONS
Here are some questions to guide a conversation around kindness this election season.
What does kindness mean to you?
How can we show kindness to people with different opinions?
Why is it important to be kind during election season?
How can we spread kindness in our community?
Think of a person you know who exemplified kindness and always acts with respect?
READ
Sharice’s Big Voice: A Native Kid Becomes a Congresswoman by Sharice Davids
Sharice's true story of speaking up, staying determined, and using her voice to make change is full of hope and inspiration. It also has a strong message of service.
INSPIRATION
"A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees."
—Amelia Earhart