With all the excitement in Ottawa and the links back to Guelph, we have been having some interesting discussions at our house about politics, civics and ethics.
Politics can be a tricky topic for kids to wrap their heads around. The best advice I’ve read on the topic is to keep initial discussions simple and relate it back to your kids’ every day life as much as possible. If there is one thing kids understand, it’s the concept of fair.
Here are some resources that may help:
TVO has some wonderful resources. There is an excellent interview here with Taylor Gunn, founder of Studentvote.ca about engaging children in discussions about politics.
TVO also has a television show and related online game called Pillars of Freedom . From the TVO website: Pillars of Freedom is set in Caveworld, a land that once enjoyed great freedoms but these freedoms have withered away because they were neglected. At the centre of the story are Spirit and Imm, two curious little dragons who embark on a quest to find the mystical Pillars of Freedom that will restore freedom.
If your kids are interested in learning more, and you are up for a field trip there is a March Break program at Queen’s Park.
Join Parliamentary Protocol and Public Relations Branch for an interactive March Break program at Ontario’s Legislative Building. Explore the historic building through a scavenger hunt, dress up in the traditional black robes worn in Parliament, and participate in a craft activity. This 2.5 hour program for children ages 6-10 is offered weekdays during March Break.
Books to read:
Duck for President by Doreen Cronin and illustrated by Betsy Lewin.
When Duck gets tired of working for Farmer Brown, his political ambition eventually leads to his being elected President.
Who runs this country anyway? : a guide to Canadian government by Joanne Stanbridge.
An upbeat and humorous approach to Canada”s government! In this easy-to-read, information-packed book, a comical duo – a student documentary maker and her offbeat sidekick – guide readers through Canada”s electoral and governing process, from casting a vote in an election to passing a bill in Parliament, and all the points in between. Finding out about Canada”s government has never been so much fun! Jam-packed with interesting photos, this book is sure to be a hit with young readers.The zany sections that tell kids how to stump an adult will be especially popular! Who Runs This Country, Anyway? has a unique approach to describing how Canadian government works – who knew that politics could be so much fun! Its curriculum focus makes it a must-have for all teachers and students – and maybe even some future politicians!
Vote! by Eileen Christelow
Suppose your town is about to choose a new mayor. How will you do it? You’ll vote!
Using a town’s mayoral election as a model, this lively introduction to voting covers every step of the process from the start of the campaign to Election Day. There’s even a recount! Told in comic book style, this look at how we choose our leaders turns an often-daunting topic into an exciting narrative. (This book is American but covers elections and ethics in a general sense.)
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