Empowering Activist Kids

Though you need to be an adult in order to legally vote, discovering and cultivating personal power through an activist spirit can begin quite young. As children learn about the world and its needs, they can also be taught they have a right to be listened to and that actively expressing their voice makes a difference.

The following activities can be done within your family, school, religious organization or any other community of which your children are a part.

Begin a letter-writing campaign to governmental representatives in which your child states the issue and expresses his or her thoughts, feelings and the desired change.
At community events or cooperative locations in your town, set up information tables so that kids can play a role in bringing issues that matter to them to the attention of others.
Find local stores or libraries that would be willing to display thoughtfully created posters on their bulletin boards.
If you plan to attend any peaceful protests, find out if it’s okay for you to bring your child along. In general, sharing your own activism in appropriate ways with your children is an effective tool for passing on the value of getting involved.

Read more: Children, Family, activism, kids, protests

Disclaimer: The views expressed above are solely those of the author and may not reflect those of
Care2, Inc., its employees or advertisers.

Tim C.

3:38PM PDT on Aug 18, 2011

thanks

August 18
send a green star

David J.

2:10AM PDT on Jun 14, 2010

thanks for the information

June 14
send a green star

Janice P.

10:43AM PDT on Jun 10, 2010

Why not? Teach social responsibility at an early age. Without it, we won't have much of a society.

June 10
send a green star

Cheryl F.

6:44AM PDT on May 20, 2008

In an election year, I think it's a good time to point out that it's never too early for kids to start understanding political activism too. Taking kids to a political rally or to a campaign HQ to stuff envelopes is a tangible introduction to democracy and the power of people joining together.

May 20
send a green star

Lorie G.

11:00AM PDT on Apr 29, 2008

Excellent points! I also agree with Randy - being ag good role model has been the most effective thing for our daughter. She's always wanting to get involved! Recently she even wrote a letter to Mars because she was horrified when she found out about the animal testing.

April 29
send a green star

Randy P.

7:35AM PDT on Apr 28, 2008

Thanks Terri!

One other point some of us take for granted: there's nothing like a good role model. Be that great example of positive activism (do the things mentioned above!), and I have little doubt your children (at least eventually) will mirror that behavior down the line.