Election season can be an emotional time for everyone, kids included. The constant flow of campaign ads, discussions with friends, social media posts, and the news cycle can quickly fill our lives with a sense of urgency and tension. It’s easy for this charged atmosphere to seep into our homes, even when we try to shield our kids. Children are naturally perceptive and pick up on our feelings more than we might realize. If you’re feeling stressed or worried, there’s a good chance they’re feeling it too. This guide offers simple, grounding strategies to keep your family connected, calm, and reassured during this heightened time, helping everyone feel supported and safe amidst the buzz.
1. Model Calmness Through Self-Regulation
Children absorb the emotional cues of adults, so one of the most powerful things you can do is regulate your own responses to election stress. Here are some strategies to help you stay grounded:
Limit News Exposure: Aim to consume news in thoughtful, manageable doses, rather than keeping it on in the background. Even subtle news coverage can increase stress levels for everyone at home, especially when topics become intense. By being intentional about when and how you access the news, you create a calmer and focused environment.
Practice Deep Breathing or Mindfulness: Quick, simple breathing exercises or brief mindfulness practices can help you calm down when things feel overwhelming this election season. Practicing this regularly can also make it a great tool to share with your children. Here is a quick 7-minute mindfulness video:
Acknowledge Your Feelings: Talking openly (and calmly) about your stress or concerns helps normalize emotions and encourages children to express theirs too. “I’m feeling a bit anxious about the news today, but I’m taking some deep breaths and focusing on the things I can control. Do you want to join me?”
2. Filter Information to Keep It Developmentally Appropriate
Kids don’t need to know all the ins and outs of election controversies, but they do need to feel safe and have some understanding of what’s going on. Tailor your explanations based on age and maturity.
Younger Children: For younger kids, keep it simple. Explain that elections are a way for people to choose leaders and make decisions that affect everyone. Reassure them that grown-ups are responsible for handling these things and that they are safe.
Older Children and Teens: Tweens and teens are naturally curious and eager to form opinions about the world. As they bring you questions or observations from school, online, and friends, take time to listen and acknowledge their views. Validating their thoughts support their independence and shows respect for their perspective. When discussing complex issues, offer balanced information and encourage them to explore multiple viewpoints. This fosters critical thinking and a discerning approach to sources. By modeling open-mindedness and respect, you equip them with tools for lifelong learning and respectful dialogue. Be CURIOUS.
3. Create a Safe Space for Questions and Feelings
Let your children know it’s okay to ask questions or share their feelings. When you make space for open discussions, you’re giving them tools to process their emotions in a healthy way.
Ask Open-Ended Questions: Instead of asking “Do you feel okay?” try questions like, “What have you heard about the election?” or “How do you feel about what’s going on?” to encourage sharing.
Validate Their Emotions: Whatever their feelings, let them know it’s normal to feel worried, confused, or even excited. Assure them that emotions are temporary and will pass, and that you’re there to help them through.
4. Focus on Positives and Find Opportunities for Empowerment
Even in stressful times, children (and adults) feel more secure when they have a sense of agency. Election season can provide valuable lessons on civic engagement, responsibility, and kindness.
Find Ways to Help Together: Show your children that they have the power to make a difference, even in small ways. This could mean volunteering, supporting a community initiative, or simply doing something kind for a neighbor.
Discuss Positive Changes: Highlight the potential for positive outcomes, even if there’s uncertainty. Talk about how every election can lead to growth and improvements. Reframing helps children see beyond fear and toward the potential for good.
5. Prioritize Connection and Play to Reduce Stress
Election season’s focus on adult concerns can make children feel left out or overshadowed. Spend intentional time as a family enjoying each other’s company, away from screens and news.
Keep Routines Intact: Stability and predictability make children feel safe. Try to keep daily routines consistent, even if other things feel chaotic. Bedtime stories, family dinners, and shared activities create a reliable rhythm.
Engage in Play: Laughter and play are natural stress relievers. Play a game, bake cookies, or do something fun together that reminds you both that family connection is more enduring than any election cycle.
6. Reinforce the Concept of Resilience
Election seasons come and go, but the resilience and coping skills you help your children build will last a lifetime. Encourage them to see challenges as opportunities to grow stronger.
Talk About Resilience: Explain that resilience means bouncing back from difficult times. Share examples from your life (without specific political references) about times when you stayed strong and got through challenges.
Celebrate Small Wins Together: Even on tough days, there are little victories—an act of kindness, a good grade, or simply making it through a stressful day. Acknowledging these moments help children feel capable and resilient.
Election season can stir a variety of emotions in families, but it doesn’t have to disrupt your home’s sense of peace. It’s important to stay calm and approach your children’s questions with openness and understanding. By fostering a grounding, supportive environment, you not only help them navigate these uncertain times but also model valuable skills for handling future challenges. The values of empathy and emotional resilience they cultivate now will serve them well throughout their lives. As we approach election day, let’s prioritize connection and understanding. By doing so, we create a space where family members feel safe to express their thoughts and feelings, reinforcing the bonds that hold us together.
Valentina Davalos, LPC-Associate
