Encourage Citizenship
Special Excerpt from The Truth about Parenting:
Navigating the Elementary Years*

Veteran’s Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day were created for more than hot dogs, fireworks, and picnics. One of the foundations of our nation is helping children develop character and guiding them on a path to becoming responsible citizens. The patriotic holidays are to celebrate and thank the courageous, trustworthy, respectful, and responsible people who stepped forward to create a country for the people, led by the people and those that have given their lives protecting our freedom. Our forefathers’ vision was of a democratic nation with people caring about each other’s welfare. Our children are counting on us to continue this dedication to democracy and civility.

Many people cheered when the North Carolina legislature passed the Student Citizen Act of 2001, which required local boards of education to implement character education instruction, including development of middle and high school civic and citizenship curricula. Under this law, our children are encouraged to become thoughtful and informed citizens. Learning the skills, virtues, and confidence to be active in a democratic society should be the objectives of many civics lessons. In essence, children need to believe they can and should make a difference in our world.

In spite of the legislation to increase school civic education, a recent survey of students found a growing lack of civic engagement. In particular, high school students report they have little interest in civic duties and have limited knowledge or trust in the political system.

This report and the lackluster results from the Student Citizen Act brought yet another piece of legislation that outlines more completely the expectations for our schools. All federally funded schools must teach about the constitution on September 17 or nearest school day, the day in 1787 when the document was adopted.

But, a day set aside for Citizenship studies is simply not enough. To be effective, parents need to step up to the plate and do more to develop character and instill a commitment to civic duty in children. Here are ideas to make citizenship a regular part of your child’s life:

• Teach your child to love our country.
• Study the Constitution and Declaration of Independence with your child and talk about how our freedoms began and are maintained.
• Learn the words to the National Anthem. Teach your child to show respect when the National Anthem is being sung or played.
• Have your child write a definition for good citizenship that includes ways she can support the community and country.
• Share examples of ways in which you demonstrate good citizenship.
• Go on family trips to government offices and learn the names of those in office.
• Attend meetings of elected officials. Study the agendas for the meetings and be sure to select ones that have an issue that impacts your child or family.
• Make a plan for you family to participate regularly in community service projects such as picking up litter or cleaning graffiti from public places.
• Find a way to honor local citizens who regularly contribute to the overall good of the community.
• Take your child to the polls when you vote. Even better, help them participate in the Kids Voting program (www.kidsvotingusa.org) that helps children understand the electoral process and prepares them for the day when they are eligible. Explain to your child who you are voting for and why. Encourage your child to make their own decision when voting.
• Visit a local veteran’s memorial. Find ways your family can support the efforts to honor our veterans.
• Hang a flag in a prominent place on holidays. Consider having one on display year-round. To demonstrate respect for what the flag stands for, follow the U.S. Flag code that includes ensuring your flag is always in good condition.