Watching the presidential debates with your kids

Presidential debates are a golden opportunity to educate and interact with your children on the subject of American government using a real-time current event.

The first presidential debate takes place tonight at 9 p.m. eastern time on the campus of the University of Denver in Denver, Colorado. President Barack Obama and Governor Mitt Romney are lined up to discuss the topic of domestic policy in a debate where the candidates will be able to respond to each question. What can your kids get out of watching the presidential debates with you, and how should you approach the event with them?

Have the internet ready

Questions can and probably will pop up that you may not have a quick answer for, so keep your laptop, tablet or phone nearby for quick internet searches.

When the debate is over

After the debate, turn off your television or radio and discuss what transpired with your kids. Let them express their opinions first — if you start, they may feel pressure that their thoughts should mirror your own. Try to flesh out their answers if they don’t say much at first. Ask why they felt that President Obama said this, or Governor Romney said that. What helped sway their opinion?

Relish the moment

Current events, such as a presidential debate, are a prime moment to really get on your children’s level and help them understand the importance of our government.

“Children benefit from learning that there are different opinions on how our country should be run and that it’s OK to have healthy debates on subjects that influence the country’s operations,” shared Rachelle, mother of two. “They also need to understand that despite the differences in opinions, people are able to work together and accomplish great things for our country.”

More on kids and current events

Colorado Dark Knight theater shootings: How to talk to your kids about violence
How to talk to your kids about 9/11
How to talk to your kids about natural disasters