Preschoolers (Ages 3–5): Emphasizing Safety, Fairness, and Love

Preschoolers are far too young to comprehend political specifics, but they can understand basic concepts of safety, fairness, and kindness. At this age, focus on reassuring them that they are safe and loved, and keep the conversation centered on these universal values.

Talking Points:

1. Safety and Love First: Begin by reassuring your daughter that she is safe and loved. This is what she needs most at this age, especially if she picks up on any changes in your mood or routines.
2. Basic Fairness Concepts: Explain that sometimes people in charge make rules that can affect others differently. You could say, “Sometimes adults have different ideas about what’s fair, and not everyone agrees. But it’s important that we always try to be kind and help others.”
3. Model Calmness: Children this age are extremely sensitive to our emotions. When possible, try to model calmness and grounding by engaging in comforting routines with her, like reading a favorite book or spending time outdoors. These simple actions can provide her with stability during uncertain times.

Early Elementary (Ages 6–8): Framing Basic Rights and Reassuring Them About Family Safety

Children in early elementary school are beginning to grasp ideas of fairness and justice. At this age, you can introduce the concept of rights in basic terms and explain that sometimes rules change, but family support remains constant.

Talking Points:

1. Explaining Rights and Choices: Share that sometimes the government makes rules about what people can and can’t do. You might say, “Some people want everyone to have the same choices, and others think differently. But we believe it’s fair for people to be able to make choices about their own lives.”
2. Reassuring Family Safety: If your child hears about immigration or LGBTQ rights, explain in simple terms that some people worry about their families because of changes in the law. Assure her that your family is safe and that you’re here to protect her.
3. Addressing Your Emotions Gently: If she notices your mood or asks why you seem worried, you might say, “Sometimes adults feel a bit worried about things, but I am okay and here for you. When I’m worried, I do things that make me feel better, like taking a walk or hugging you.”

Tweens (Ages 9–12): Encouraging Empathy, Bodily Autonomy, and Exploring Basic Rights

Tweens are naturally curious and increasingly aware of the world around them. They may have already heard about issues like reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, and immigration challenges, especially if these topics are discussed in school or online. Use this as an opportunity to discuss empathy and bodily autonomy in an age-appropriate way.

Talking Points:

1. Introducing Bodily Autonomy: Explain that bodily autonomy means everyone has the right to make choices about their own body. You might say, “There are people who want to change the rules about who can make decisions about their own body, and not everyone agrees with these changes. We believe that everyone should have the right to make these decisions for themselves.”
2. Reproductive Rights: Frame this in terms of health and fairness. You could say, “Some people believe girls and women should have access to certain kinds of healthcare, while others think differently. It’s important that people are safe and healthy, and that’s why some people are concerned about these changes.”
3. Empathy for Others: Use this opportunity to explain that some people, like immigrants or those in the LGBTQ community, may feel uncertain or worried. You could say, “It’s okay to feel for people who may be struggling right now. When people are treated unfairly, it’s important that we show kindness and support.”
4. Handling Parental Anxiety: If your child sees you feeling upset or notices changes in your behavior, try sharing in a gentle way. “Sometimes adults feel worried about things, too. When I feel that way, I like to talk about it or find things that help me feel better, like spending time with you.”