Do you talk about politics and the elections with your child? If you are a parent, having to talk about sex, relationships or drugs with your children can already be pretty difficult but talking about the upcoming elections and introducing the candidates can be quite stressful.
Donald Trump's chauvinistic, populist rhetoric has brought the political dissertation in the United States to new lows. In fact, the new survey about the so-called, "Trump Effect," brought disturbing trend about the behavior of students in schools.
As a parent, however, you can help making your children understand and opening their minds about the upcoming elections, Donald Trump and his xenophobic discourse. The responsibility to reduce and increase religious biases lies in your hands as parents.
How To Talk About Donald Trump With Your Kids?
Sex and drugs are pretty common topics that you can just google online. But with Donald Trump, who have said hurtful and discriminating things about women, immigrants and the minorities, googling seems to be challenging, noting the negative write-ups about him.
Pamela Hayford of New-Press, however, has some good advice for parents who want to talk about politics, the elections and Donald Trump to their kids. According to Hayford, parents should ask neutral questions like the following:
- Have you heard about the election?
- Who are the candidates?
- What do you think they are like?"
Parents should then listen to their children's responses. After hearing your kids, talk about how people should treat each other or may talk about other family values that are significant to you and your family.
Hayford also warned that parents should not condemn or insult Donald Trump for being a "bully" even if it's for the sake of humor. Instead, keep the discussion civil.
"I don't think making fun of the man is the solution," Hayford wrote. "You might say, 'Well, he started it.' [But] all the grown-ups - on both sides of the aisle - need to keep the discussion civil. No matter how much a candidate incites you, keep your cool. Our kids are watching."
The Trump Effect
The latest survey titled, "The Trump Effect: The Impact of the Presidential Campaign on our Nation's Schools," from the Southern Poverty Law Center recently showed an alarming trend about racial tensions in the classrooms across the United States. The study revealed that the current 2016 U.S. Presidential Campaign has been igniting fear and bullying in the classrooms.
Based on the study, teachers said most of their students who are immigrants and Muslims have expressed fear over the aftereffects of the elections. Hatred towards refugees, low-income and poor citizens have also increased, Huffington Post notes.
Donald Trump And Parenthood
In an article written by Christine Flowers of The Baxter Bulletin, the writer said Donald Trump appeared to be a good father if not in the world of politics. Flowers also described the profound love and devotion Trump's children showed to their dad but stressed that she won't be voting for the controversial New York billionaire.
"[Donald Trump] might not be presidential material, but it seems that, at least for Eric, Don Jr., Ivanka, Tiffany and Barron, he actually does know best," Flowers wrote.
Do you talk about Donald Trump with your children? Sound off below and follow Parent Herald for more news and updates.
