By Natasha Goodge, MSW, LSW – March 17, 2025 –

Any adult will tell you it is taboo to discuss religion or politics. This is easy enough, so long as you do not parent or educate children.

I was unprepared when my six-year-old forcefully stated his personal political opinions in response to the television news playing in the crowded waiting room of his dentist’s office.

For those raising and educating children, maintaining the polite status quo is not an option. It is our responsibility to create a safe space for them to talk about whatever is on their mind and to help them develop the skills to speak their minds in a thoughtful and respectful manner (when it is appropriate, of course).  

But how?

1. Start where they are. What do they know, what have they heard, what questions do they have? This gives you the best jumping off point and allows you an opportunity to correct misinformation and discuss the importance of where information comes from. Let them guide the conversations. This makes them feel safe and heard. When children feel heard by their adults, they develop trust and are more likely to share the hard things that arise in the future.

2. Use simple and neutral explanations. Stick to the facts. While I do hope my children grow up to share my beliefs, I know it is best if they arrive there on their own, and their journey may include detours. Allow them the space to explore. Children learn best when trusted adults model their personal values and critical thinking rather than dictating.

3. Validate their feelings. As parents, the desire to pave a smooth road for our children is strong. This is simply not feasible and does not create resilience. Reminding them that their feelings are valid gives them the space to process their feelings and then the ability to think about their next steps.  

4. Explain processes rather than specifics. Educating children about the workings of government and democracy allows them a sense of empowerment. You can further empower them by helping them get involved by doing things like writing letters, attending local events, or even discussing issues with others (in appropriate settings, of course).

5. Focus on values. Remind them that, for the most part, humans share the same values: autonomy and accountability, achievement and altruism, wealth, freedom, and fairness, but we all prioritize these values differently. The difference in how we prioritize values is what results in our political differences. It is dismissive and harmful to believe opposing sides lack essential values.

6. Model kindness, respect, and curiosity. When engaging those with differing views, encourage curiosity over persuading. Asking others about their different beliefs is a far more effective way of engaging. Preaching on the other hand, often reinforces an opponent’s beliefs.  

By following these steps, you can help your child learn to prioritize their values and discuss their thoughts and opinions in a calm, respectful manner. It is important for them to learn to listen to others with curiosity when they have differing beliefs and opinions.