Teaching Civics & Democracy
in a Complex World
No matter how your family feels about the recent election results, this is an opportunity to help children grow in their understanding of civics and democracy. Children often come to school with a mix of feelings and information, especially at the elementary age when they’re highly attuned to the emotions and conversations around them. In our classrooms, we provide a safe space for students to share what they’ve heard or how they feel, gently correct any misconceptions, and encourage thoughtful listening. These conversations are valuable not just as learning moments but as a way to build empathy and community.
At home, open conversations can help children process what they’re hearing. Starting with questions like “What have you heard about the election?” or “How do you feel about it?” offers parents a window into their child’s thoughts and allows for gentle guidance. Experts suggest that starting with open-ended questions and modeling calm reactions can help children feel more grounded and secure.
““This is a tremendous opportunity for learning and for instilling the important values that you have in your family.””
Making Democracy Real in the Classroom
At school, we guide teachers to move beyond the surface-level information many of us remember learning—Congress makes laws, courts interpret them, and the president leads the country. Civics is far more nuanced, involving checks and balances, the electoral college, sometimes surprising cabinet appointments, and the importance of compromise. Teachers use language that encourages open dialogue and invites students to explore different perspectives without the pressure of being “right” or “wrong.” This approach builds essential democratic habits, helping children understand how democracy functions in real life.
Learning Through Cognitive Dissonance
Studies show that learning is often most effective when it begins with cognitive dissonance—a state where new information challenges or contradicts what we think we know. For example, explaining how a president can win without the popular vote can surprise children, prompting them to ask questions and develop critical thinking skills. In these moments, teachers guide students with empathy, validating their viewpoints and encouraging them to consider other perspectives—a key skill for navigating a diverse society.
Bringing Democracy to Life in the Classroom
As a progressive school, we strive to integrate democratic practices into daily routines. Our students hold a “constitutional convention” each year to set classroom rules, fostering respect for the principles they create together. Teachers reinforce these norms by modeling respectful disagreement, showing students that differences can lead to a richer understanding. Through Morning Meetings and social-emotional learning (SEL) activities, students practice skills like active listening, empathy, and teamwork—values essential for thoughtful civic participation. By involving students in real decision-making, we empower them to experience the responsibility and ownership that come with democratic values.
Heroes & Villains: Forming Opinions and Building Arguments
In our 2nd and 3rd grade curriculum, we explore "Heroes & Villains of the Past & Present," encouraging students to form their own opinions on historical figures and support them with facts. We let students discover that history is rarely one-sided. For example, we might ask, “How many of you think the government should invest in solar and wind power to address climate change?” Many children agree initially. But then we add, “Now imagine you’re a parent trying to afford food and rent each month. How might you feel if part of your paycheck was automatically taken to help fund these goals?” This type of questioning helps students understand that people can share values but differ in how they act on them—a fundamental part of democratic thinking.
As children process these ideas, they’re building skills for the future: critical thinking, perspective-taking, and resilience. By guiding them through complex topics, we’re preparing them to engage thoughtfully with the world and contribute to a compassionate, informed society.
Supporting Your Child’s Understanding
With big topics like elections, children are often tuned in to adult emotions, so it can be helpful to check in with them and stay mindful of what we say. Experts advise parents to monitor stress levels, limit intense reactions, and offer calm reassurance. Taking a “pause” before talking can be helpful; as one expert put it, “it’s like putting on an oxygen mask first—you need to be grounded yourself to help your child process these conversations.”
Together, through small, thoughtful steps, we’re building a foundation for civics that’s both meaningful and compassionate.
This is an early release of our December Special Edition Article.
