#sschat is a network of educators, resources, and ideas that started on Twitter, but has expanded to Facebook, an annual NCSS unconference, and more. Join us to chat asynchronously on Twitter or Facebook, or chat with us live on Mondays from 7-8pm EST.
Welcome to #sschat! We are so excited for tonight's chat #DemocracyAtPlay: Engaging Families with Civics! Make sure you answer Q1/A1, Q2a/A2a...
Tonight's chat questions are here: https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp
Hey all! Phil from Northern Virginia! Been a while since I've been able to make it to an #sschat! I teach 7th grade US History II and am the founder of #waledchat (Thurs 9pm ET) and #Edusations. Excited to be celebrating the Independence Day at the shore!
Welcome to #sschat! We are so excited for tonight's chat #DemocracyAtPlay: Engaging Families with Civics! Make sure you answer Q1/A1, Q2a/A2a...
Tonight's chat questions are here: https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp
Emma here from @icivics! I plan to celebrate Independence Day like every good American social studies educator: with cheesy history memes, cheap beer, and fireworks #sschat
Andrew from Massachusetts (gr.8 US) and #sschat co-moderator
Proud that my state's DESE recently prioritized civics in the newly-released curriculum frameworks!
Intro: David Olson - HS SS T from Madison, WI.
The family and I are headed to celebrate with some friends in a cabin along the Missouri River. Grilling, beer, and boating.
#sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
Hi! I teach 7th grade US History II in Yorktown, VA. I haven't completely decided how I'll spend the holiday, but I have a feeling I'll be reading something good. #sschat
Hey everyone. I’m walking my dog in Westminster, MD right now. But I’ll be spending time at my friend’s party on the 4th & appreciating my day off of summer school! #sschat#elevenmonthschool
Welcome to #sschat! We are so excited for tonight's chat #DemocracyAtPlay: Engaging Families with Civics! Make sure you answer Q1/A1, Q2a/A2a...
Tonight's chat questions are here: https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp
Jay from north of Boston; teacher @Hanscom_AFB MS. My #4thofJuly plans mostly revolve around new pool and cherishing my one day off from grad school in July to enjoy with fam. #sschat
welcome to the chat! Glad you're here... #sschat is a great community!
Make sure you use the hashtag for all answers. Tweeting questions from @icivics but you can find questions here: https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp
#sschat Hello everybody! I am a first time Tweeter! I am joining you tonight as part of an edchat assignment for grad school and chose this topic as part of a separate inquiry into how teachers promote academic language in their social studies classrooms.
A1: Families that engage in civic activities together will create civically engaged citizens! (low hanging fruit, I know)...
Kids will learn by watching and doing - volunteer, vote, march...
#sschat
A1: Teaching children to be active citizens is vital in helping them understand the complex structures of government and be able to advocate for themselves and understand that they have a voice! Doing so as a family creates a deeper sense of that value. #sschat
A1 #sschat Parents are the LARGEST influence in the development of habits,
values and morals. Adults need to model civic engagement for it to stick. More ideas: https://t.co/wN5o5GDLNU@icivics
A1: Kids learn habits from their parents, so seeing parents do civic activities is one of the best ways to get kids involved and keep them involved as adults and eventual citizens! #sschat
A1: One models the civil virtues to others. Helps promote community involvement and advocate for issues important to them. Studies show families are the largest force in shaping how children view civic responsibilities. #sschat
A1. When you get families engaged you begin to create habits that perpetuate over generations... GOOD HABITS like informed voting, community engagement, and civic responsibility! #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay#LetsK12Better
Engaging as a family to promote civic responsibility demonstrates how impt it is voice opinions, question concerns, and demonstrate the process. #sschat
A1: Families that engage in civic activities together will create civically engaged citizens! (low hanging fruit, I know)...
Kids will learn by watching and doing - volunteer, vote, march...
#sschat
A1- Even just talking about civic issues around the dinner table (and what you would like to do about them) sends the message that engagement is IMPORTANT. #sschat
A1: Families don’t have to beat their kids over the head with the importance of civic engagement. Seeing civic engagement reinforces it’s importance without saying a word #sschat#iCivicsEdNet
I think it holds adults accountable for their civic responsibilities. Bringing kids to voting booth is educational for them, but keeps adults doing what they should. As we hear often up here in New England, "Do Your Job!" #Belichicklovescivicstoo#sschat
A1: Civic activities are great because you can learn and have fun at the same time. It doesn't need to be a trip to DC. Small activities like taking kids to the voting booth, going to the library, or watching news together are great opportunities. #sschat
A1- Even just talking about civic issues around the dinner table (and what you would like to do about them) sends the message that engagement is IMPORTANT. #sschat
A1 We also need to build up civic engagement at the state & local levels. Seems all attention is given to national politics. I think it's important for schools to draw attention to lower levels #sschat
A1: also, research tells us that politics is a social thang... we are more likely to engage in politics when we have our squad. So I go get my most authentic squad and get political. #sschat
BQ: kids understanding that their voice matters and things they do can change the world. More active and organized as they get older, but raising money for a local charity, organizing a day to clean up a park, or making posters reminding others to be good citizens. #sschat
A1: also, research tells us that politics is a social thang... we are more likely to engage in politics when we have our squad. So I go get my most authentic squad and get political. #sschat
BQ- our civics teachers had their students run a school-wide election last year. Students had to create ways to share candidates and their platforms with younger kids-- I would love to see them continue for the midterms and local elections. #sschat
That's why I have my kids shoveling out fire hydrants in winter and helping rake baseball field after games. Gotta give the town love all the time. #sschat
A1 We also need to build up civic engagement at the state & local levels. Seems all attention is given to national politics. I think it's important for schools to draw attention to lower levels #sschat
We have 2nd graders make campaign posters for favorite book characters, and then invite all grades 3-5 vote complete w/ ballots and voting box. It's a simple way to encourage civic responsibility. #sschat#2ndchat
I find this is especially important with EL students. They often feel their voice isn’t heard, but there’s so many local ways to get involved that later let them branch into bigger topics! #sschat
A2A #sschat Schools can invite parents to participate in service-learning as well as discussions, presentations on current issues. Listening & dialogue = so important right now! https://t.co/ixaaTuSQpL@icivics
A2 Host forums and events for families to attend together. My district held topic evenings. Our sites hold coffee with principal- info & engagement. #sschat
A2A: Schools can provide opportunities for families to volunteer - My kids' elem school has a "clean up" day where we beautify the grounds, and a picnic where the PTO recruits
HS could easily invite voter registration to Fall FB games...(I think I just got an idea)
#sschat
I feel like a love for your local community helps you branch out into bigger issues. If you can tackle a local problem, you can be invested in the well being of the whole country much easier! #sschat
A2A: Have Ss share the @icivics games they play with their families - challenge mom/dad to beat their score. Get parents involved with projects hosted by the school or individual classrooms. #sschat
A2A. I know I need to do a better job of this @Hanscom_AFB as military moves our kids every 1-3 yrs. Civic engagement opp's are gr8 way for #militaryfamilies to engage in local community and 4 local civilians to get 2 know them! #sschat
Kids want a voice, and have lots of questions about what they see, hear, and read. We need to listen and let them have the conversation. They'll go home, and continue it. That's a win. #sschat
A2a. Encouraging families to attend PTA meetings is a start. Also school-wide community action projects (planting a garden or cleaning up the playground) gets teachers and parents working together to teach kids about civic responsibility #sschat#letsk12better#democracyAtplay
This question touches upon a crucial aspect of 21st century teaching: how we can bridge the divide between school & home with more effective/relevant/accessible..
* homework
* activities
* communication
* interactions
* symbiotic relationships
#sschat
A2A: Have Ss share the @icivics games they play with their families - challenge mom/dad to beat their score. Get parents involved with projects hosted by the school or individual classrooms. #sschat
A2 poll your parents at back2school night. Find where there interests are intersectional. Bring them in to your class. Have your kids interview them about content. Have a SOTU watch party. Encourage family ballot selfies (where it's legal) #sschat
Parent joining here from Connecticut!
Engage us by engaging our kids. Don’t shun political issues. Help us extend the conversation at home, by starting it. Our kids’ perspective is limited by just listening to us! #sschat A2A
Andrew from Massachusetts (gr.8 US) and #sschat co-moderator
Proud that my state's DESE recently prioritized civics in the newly-released curriculum frameworks!
A2A. We started convo with CMSgt of base...hoping dialogue leads to civic engagement for our Ss and fam's while @Hanscom_AFB Looking for more opp's to tie our kids into local communities and get them to know our kids. #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
#sschat A2 We have started it by having our civic leaders speak with our Ss in class. Fortunate over the past two years to have both of our Indiana US Senators, Todd Young & Joe Donnelly participate in Q&A. Great opportunity for our students to learn about government.
A2A: It seems too simple an answer, but it can be as little as making announcements and encouraging kids to vote and allowing students to have debates on the issues. #sschat
Yes! I feel like parents feel more connected to their students' academics through online grade portals, so many have dis-engaged with schools. We're working on trying to change that, but it tough going. #sschat
Q2B: What are some of your favorite (or suggested) civic engagement activities that are perfect for families? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay (Looking for the chat questions? https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp)
A2) An idea was shared on our FB page the other day by a teacher who has Ss make voter guides for different election races & issues in her community. #sschat
We invite parents to participate in projects and exhibitions. More importantly, their children want to involve them in their questions and ideas. It honors their voice for parents to join in the conversation. #sschat
I am a firm believer that any politician issue can be talked about in the classroom as long as it is put into a developmentally appropriate way for different students. #sschat
A2B #sschat Volunteer work, community picnics, take children to the voting booth, attend marches / rallies to show that active participation makes our communities thrive @icivics
A2B: My 6yo daughter loves playing with us the "I'm thinking of a word that starts with the letter __" game. Sometimes we play the political version. She almost won last month with "George Papadopoulos". But I docked her points for saying the letter was "P" instead of G" #sschat
A2B: I always encourage my HS Ss to vote with their parents/family members if they aren't 18. I offer *nominal* extra credit for post-voting selfies. It's crazy how much students like it.
#sschat
If the conversation isn't had in social studies classrooms or times, when will Ss have those opportunities, especially to learn to engage in conversations with those who may have different views? Totally stole that from Diana Hess, BTW. #sschat
I am a firm believer that any politician issue can be talked about in the classroom as long as it is put into a developmentally appropriate way for different students. #sschat
A2B: Cleaning up a local park/beach. Attending a local government meeting - especially school board. Discuss what they are learning about civics and civic engagement in school. #sschat
#sschat A2 Also, our Ss have been invited to dinners to hear both Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb & Former Indiana Governor and current US Vice President Mike Pence speak.
BQ: it all starts with perspective-taking and communication in elementary school. Help kids become more aware of their peers’ experiences, and how to interact with children who are alike and different from them. #sschat
Q2B: What are some of your favorite (or suggested) civic engagement activities that are perfect for families? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay (Looking for the chat questions? https://t.co/3GgG8ySZNp)
A2B. Our gr. 8 Ss host "Faces of Inequality" presentation night @Hanscom_AFB MS with family and community mem's invited. They present current inequality and practical solution toward solving it. Parents engaged by topics and impressed by presentation skilz #sschat
A2B: Even though my kids are 2-3 I firmly believe it's critical for kids to be involved in community service from a young age. This involvement helps to make abstract political ideas more concrete and relevant to their lives. #sschat
A2B) My middle school has a long tradition of an annual Constitution Bowl. It is a student favorite. It would be simple to increase family involvement by sharing the process with parents and helping them prepare their child for the fun competition #sschat
A2B) I admit the news can be depressing, but sites like @Scholastic and @Newsela publish age appropriate news. Read and discuss the news with your kids. It checks a lot of boxes. #sschat
We know schools have filters, but heck, students have phones. Social media changes the landscape for exchange and discourse. Kids need to know how to use to contribute, respond, and FACT check. #sschat
A2B oh boy. NPR and driveway moments. Vacations always involve history stops. Pick a topic, pick a book, have a history book club, visit that site. Take them to the polling booth, town hall meetings. Join SCOUTS!!! iCivics games! My youngest loves it! #sschat
Schools are sources of learning, after all! And if they’re truly committed to family and community engagement, that includes learning for them, too. #sschat
a2: I think everyone is on point here. Involving parents in community and school events is key. In my town in MA, middle school kids can sign up to shovel elderly neighbors' driveways. Also, our local library often has community events that bridge school, home and town. #sschat
A3A: My advice is to provide a safe space for your kiddos to talk about interesting and relevant issues. And yes, that includes politics (and sex, and Fortnite, and religion, and unlimited data plans) #sschat
A2B: I'm always floored by how many parents come in during conferences and tell me how often they talk about the issues that come up in class. Spend some time on CURRENT EVENTS in the classroom and it will pay dividends!
#sschat
A3A #sschat Many adults fear that politics is too "heavy" and that we need to protect our children from worry - but they are so perceptive; not discussing makes it more confusing! @icivics
A3A: Parents are afraid that they don't know enough to talk about it. Adults think kids don't know enough to talk about it. Adults think kids won't/don't take it seriously - I think we realized this was wrong with the #schoolsafety marches. #MarchForOurLives#sschat
A3A: I know when the news is on in my own home, I try to avoid bad-mouthing certain politicians. I don't want my kids to be cynical, but I want them to be engaged and have opinions.
#sschat
Usually if you invite both sides, you're okay. I've invited both Young Republicans and Young Democrats to come in to my classes. I couldn't get them in on the same day but they both did participate and offered a lot of discussion with the students. #sschat
Q2A Teach Ss to create "lesson plans" so that they can teach their family members about civic action. Ts can assess the Ss' "lesson plans" and "lesson reflection". Pull back the curtain on teaching a bit... #sschat
This question touches upon a crucial aspect of 21st century teaching: how we can bridge the divide between school & home with more effective/relevant/accessible..
* homework
* activities
* communication
* interactions
* symbiotic relationships
#sschat
A2A: @SolancoSchlDist has school-wide day of service. Kids have a wide array of options to pick from that help different individuals or groups. Parents and comm. orgs. can and should be invited to participate. One day set aside to make the community a better place. #sschat
Too many parents seek to shield their children about all news, but the average middle schooler gets his/her news feed on Snapchat. We encourage parents to "wake up," well not in those words, but hey! #sschat
A3A getting political in a polarized environment could cost you your job. Therefore focus on structure, not issues. Let kids lead on issues, show them how to moderate the conversation instead of telling them what to think #sschat
A3 For some parents- time, knowledge and uncomfortable. I'm lucky to have grown up in a house with news, politics, and seeing my parents engage others in civil conversations. #sschat
A3a. No topic is off limits in our house. I say ask your kids what they've heard and ask their opinions... Google @icivics, @Newsela, @PBSLrnMedia can help you... also check out @procon_org. These resources can provide confident conversations fodder #sschat#LetsK12Better
8th gr. students learn about the Constitutional Articles/Amendments, we have question sets & a buzzer system. Ss form teams of 4, at the end of the unit we have a Bowl- Ss earn extra credit for every round they advance. Teachers also pick 15 kids for a Courthouse Tour. #sschat
A3A. Some topics are VERY personal to Ss and adults alike. We had dicey moments this year talking about perspectives around race and LGBTQ as both ends of political spectrum were represented and dialogue sometimes went awry. Some see safety in the retreat. #sschat
A3A: So many things hold parents back. They don't want to bias their kids, they don't know how to talk about politics with their kids, they don't like talking about politics. Or, what's worse, they don't FEEL knowledgeable enough to talk about politics. #sschat
A3A getting political in a polarized environment could cost you your job. Therefore focus on structure, not issues. Let kids lead on issues, show them how to moderate the conversation instead of telling them what to think #sschat
Q3B. What advice do you have for parents and adult role models that are concerned with talking about government and politics with kids? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
A3B: Just do it! You will be amazed how savvy your kids probably are. Start small by watching the local news and discussing that. Add in reading a newspaper a few days a week. Next thing you know, you'll both be better informed! #sschat
A3B: My advice is to provide a fun and safe space for your kiddos to talk about interesting and relevant issues. And yes, that includes politics (and also probably sex, and Fortnite, and religion, and upping their data limits) #sschat
A3.A: Many adults usually they are not involved themselves, don't fully understand the issues, don't care, not sure HOW to discuss their views, etc. As a teacher, provide that safe environment, play devil's advocate on issues, present the facts for both sides, etc. #sschat
A3B #sschat Empower kids with solutions to complex problems. Ex. even toddlers understand trash ends up harming sea life, so we need to Reduce, Reuse, Recycle https://t.co/VAlErQF4Mu@icivics
If I tell students what I think and why I think it (supporting a claim with evidence & reasoning), would/should/could that cost me my job?
(This question comes from a place of curiosity, not as rhetorical trickery or an instigation for debate)
#sschat
A3A getting political in a polarized environment could cost you your job. Therefore focus on structure, not issues. Let kids lead on issues, show them how to moderate the conversation instead of telling them what to think #sschat
Agreed...shying away from political issues and failing to educate kids on how to hold productive dialogue is what gets us to the point where we hate "the other side". #sschat#tolerance
A3A getting political in a polarized environment could cost you your job. Therefore focus on structure, not issues. Let kids lead on issues, show them how to moderate the conversation instead of telling them what to think #sschat
A3B: Teach students to ask questions. There are plenty of times where kids AND ADULTS don't know a lot about the issues. We need to get better at determining what we don't know and where the info comes from.
#sschat
BQ: don’t forget about showing students the power of local journalism, the fourth pillar of democracy. How does the media act as a check and balance on government? Open this dialogue. Have older students write about the issues that matter most to them. #sschat
A3b - Please discuss issues with kids. They need to see many different examples of adults have reasonable conversations about difficult issues. Not just TV heads yelling at each other. Role models matter. #sschat
A3) For many families, a barrier would be time/appropriate access to news media & also devoted family time. But if we really get the students talking and interested first, they will prompt those discussions.#sschat
A3B. Go for it! You'll learn from your kids. They'll learn from you! You may have to look something up. Don't be embarrassed if you don't know something.
Teach Them: On Parents and Civic Duty: https://t.co/xh6VL1bA1n#sschat#letsk12better#democracyAtplay
A2: permit our kids to play a real role in addressing community issues. Give kids the chance to find what those problems are, and then help them with the logistics to create solutions with the help of the community's assets and capital. #sschat
The more we engage families to openly talk about government and politics, the more likely we will have young people actively participate in the conversation. #sschat
A2B: I'm always floored by how many parents come in during conferences and tell me how often they talk about the issues that come up in class. Spend some time on CURRENT EVENTS in the classroom and it will pay dividends!
#sschat
3b Model civility. Look at/discuss both sides, ask Ss/child where they stand and open discussion. Civility, language, and and open to discuss are key! #sschat
Moderation is the key. It's important that kids understanding that disagreeing with you is OK (and possibly even a good thing!). The problem is when you don't give both sides of the story. #SSChat
A3.B: Sit down and watch/read the news together and promote a way to talk about the issues. Just do it. Our Ss are exposed to the issues on their social media, might as well bite the bullet and talk with our kids about them. They might surprise you. #sschat
Q3B. What advice do you have for parents and adult role models that are concerned with talking about government and politics with kids? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
A3B: This is an amazing policy. I try to do something similar in my classroom with my troubled Ss...Mostly because their going to talk about it anyway Haha #sschat
A3B: My advice is to provide a fun and safe space for your kiddos to talk about interesting and relevant issues. And yes, that includes politics (and also probably sex, and Fortnite, and religion, and upping their data limits) #sschat
Sorry for joining late A3B: students are already being overloaded by these topics on social media, by having these conversations you can teach children to be critical thinkers that know how to fact check & develop their own opinions #sschat
A3B: I would encourage parents to talk with their kids about politics and share their personal opinions. However, I would urge them to allow their kids to form their own opinions based on their own research and beliefs. #sschat
A3b advice: the only thing worse than talking about controversial ideas is not talking about them and allowing young people to carry them around without a healthy, safe forum in which to share them @daneels_m#sschat
A3B I think talking politics involves a possibility of finding out your own kids don't agree w/u, which stings. But instead of getting mad and shutting down the convo, you should both find more info together. I remember changing my mom's mind about death penalty that way #sschat
I find myself initiating the conversations at home. Sometimes that may be because kids don’t automatically open up about everything talked about in school. Other times, the schools aren’t addressing it. #sschat
A2B: I'm always floored by how many parents come in during conferences and tell me how often they talk about the issues that come up in class. Spend some time on CURRENT EVENTS in the classroom and it will pay dividends!
#sschat
A3B: Teach students to ask questions. There are plenty of times where kids AND ADULTS don't know a lot about the issues. We need to get better at determining what we don't know and where the info comes from.
#sschat
A3 Sit and talk with you kid- They have lots to say and know more that we generally give them credit. We also need to clarify info and misinformation. #sschat
I sponsor high school Dems and Republicans, bring them together once a month to read diverse viewpoints and have a civil conversation, then help them advocate for their beliefs. Checkout @projectciv and start your own chapter! It’s working great! #sschat
I find the irony of how many Ts say "It's unprofessional to tell you how I feel about x issue" but when our Ss go to college it's "Hi, I'm Dr. Z and I feel x on issues." #sschat
A4: I think one of the biggest things they can do is vote! It is a simple, but vital part of our democratic republic. I would say also taking time to petition or contact leaders about concerns also says leaps and bounds about the idea that our government is for the ppl #sschat
We need more questioners of facts on government and politics. It's not about the side you're on; it's about listening to both sides to discuss issues. That's civil discourse. #sschat
I sponsor high school Dems and Republicans, bring them together once a month to read diverse viewpoints and have a civil conversation, then help them advocate for their beliefs. Checkout @projectciv and start your own chapter! It’s working great! #sschat
In addition to all the other answers, I don’t think kids are given enough respect—they’re assumed to be not ready, that democracy must wait till voting age. Look at the backlash against student activists. Information is power and we’re often not willing to give it. #sschat A3A
Yes! I have had many parents email me thanking me for this, because it started the conversation at home and the students were all a sudden passionate about school and my class #sschat
A3A getting political in a polarized environment could cost you your job. Therefore focus on structure, not issues. Let kids lead on issues, show them how to moderate the conversation instead of telling them what to think #sschat
A4: I don't think it takes much to be a good civic role model. Just telling kids that "it matters" can make an impact. But modeling responsible news consumption, civil discourse, actual engagement (if only voting), and perspective taking...that can go a super long way #sschat
A4 Parents can engage in civil protest, take their kid with them to the capital to lobby, watch the news together & discuss, and go to community events. #sschat
A3b advice: the only thing worse than talking about controversial ideas is not talking about them and allowing young people to carry them around without a healthy, safe forum in which to share them @daneels_m#sschat
A4: Going to the polls and voting. One of my earliest memories was going to vote w/ my mom, closing the curtain & her letting me pull the lever on the machine to cast her vote. #sschat
ZOOOOOOOOMMM
#sschat is flying by, with about 15 minutes to go!
Fortunately we will compile and post a @wakelet archive soon after the chat ends, which you can always find at https://t.co/bUfFFwKX83
BQ K-12 Civics Learning should reflect the NCSS C3 Frameworks. If all 50 states adopted them (sadly, MA doesn't) Ss would find relevance in every social studies topic taught in each grade. C3 for all State Frameworks! #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
I found Diana Hess' book Controversy in the Classroom to be helpful in learning what makes an issue controversial and how different teachers handle discussions about them effectively. https://t.co/KxvCsq9Fr5#sschat
I’m high school history/civics/Econ teacher, and this was my first Monday of summer break. I plan on spending the 4th at a BBQ and watching the Macy’s fireworks over the East River. #sschat
A4. Share your passions. Share the ways you care for the people and things you love and find important- the environment, people's rights, health and wellness... #sschat#LetsK12better
It gets tougher all the time. Take a look at the book: "Too Big to Know: Rethinking Knowledge Now That the Facts Aren’t the Facts, Experts Are Everywhere, and the Smartest Person in the Room Is the Room." #sschat
A4. I'm fortunate that my kids are surrounded by models. I have one bro who is a #MSP and two that are @USArmy soldiers. For my Ss, I try to bring role models to them or them to the role models. Ex. went to MA State House to meet @RepKenGordon and met @MassGovernor too! #sschat
In reply to
@icivics, @USArmy, @RepKenGordon, @MassGovernor
My kids are proud that I am a teacher, a student, an election worker, a voter registrar, a girl scout troop leader, a coach. They are proud that I march and speak and work for my community. We often do those together so that they are, too. And I am proud of them, too. #sschat
A4: All we have to do is exactly what we all do here. Encourage your kids to ask questions, to be inquisitive, and to think about what other people say. #sschat#parentingtips
A3 Parents and young people rarely sit down for dinner any more. That’s when political talk should happen. Social media, sports, other activities consume them. #sschat
Bonus Answer: Civic learning can take so many forms, and it needn't be limited to the social studies classroom. Help students make the connections every day and in every class #sschat
A4: Volunteering with your kids is great! Talking to them about age-appropriate issues is important... And you can participate in the @icivics Bingo challenge this summer. #DemocracyAtPlay#sschat
Totally! If it doesn't happen at school, social media algorithms will continue to feed individual biases. Trick is to connect with classes that have differing views. @nytimes did a good job making a place for discussion last election. https://t.co/LaN5zhM7D2@CHitch94#sschat
In reply to
@Byrnes922, @Ms_Docca, @JeremyDBond, @nytimes, @CHitch94
Yes!!! This is probably the most challenging for my students to do but they have always said at the end it really helped them see why some people believe differently, and helped them really figure out why they believed what they do. #sschat
In reply to
@JeremyDBond, @Ms_Docca, @jwkraschnewski
BQ. Civic learning at MS level is helping to empower Ss to be citizens. We research topics of their interest and learn what they can do about them. I've had my Ss use @govtrack to research issue being debated currently and write their rep's on how they feel. #sschat
BQ Civic Learning includes media literacy, becoming informed on both sides & evaluating info to make an informed decision, taking informed action. Get into #GoodTrouble and advocate! #sschat
We encourage parents to take their children to vote. We also let students share activist activities that they participate in with their parents. NO judgement on side. That's impt, kids need to hear all sides. #sschat
A4 Host postcard parties! (google 'Postcards for America' & 'Postcards to Voters') It brings all of our engaged friends/neighbors together every week. Even kids can write 'em. Use the "coloring book" cards & young kids color them. #DemocracyatPlay#sschat
At the high school level civics lesson need to be hands on and practical. Teach your students how to research candidates and evaluate information and news sources. They should know how to register to vote, what different offices do, and how important local elections are.#sschat
Q5: Kids often learn about civics, government, and social studies at school. How can parents support (or even reinforce) these lessons at home? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
A5: Parents need to talk with their kids about what they learned that day. Ts can make it part of the assignment - tell your Ps what you learned and ask them what they think. Tough sometimes with many kids having "absentee" parents :( #sschat
It better count for something! :) I do have to say that my kids were all about seeing the Hamilton/Rev War related stuff when we went to DC, Williamsburg, & Yorktown a few weeks ago. WIN! #sschat
A5: It use to be that home was the first place to discuss civic virtues. But having those discussions, watching the news together, voting together, going to protests/town hall meetings, etc. #sschat
A5: I always ask parents that if they have experience, family stories, or other background knowledge to share that information with their children to help learning expand beyond the walls of a classroom. #sschat
If the conversation isn't had in social studies classrooms or times, when will Ss have those opportunities, especially to learn to engage in conversations with those who may have different views? Totally stole that from Diana Hess, BTW. #sschat
I am a firm believer that any politician issue can be talked about in the classroom as long as it is put into a developmentally appropriate way for different students. #sschat
A5 #sschat Talk about big events portrayed in the media in constructive ways because they see it anyway. Try Today's News, Tomorrow's Lesson https://t.co/xxNoBP9JDC@icivics
BQ: don’t forget about showing students the power of local journalism, the fourth pillar of democracy. How does the media act as a check and balance on government? Open this dialogue. Have older students write about the issues that matter most to them. #sschat
BA make civics Ed reach all contents. I love gov because it impacts all fields of studies... Which are amazingly rope for discursive, philosophical questions. #sschat
BQ. @MASchoolsK12 laid out how MS civic engagement can look by adopting all civic-curriculum for all MA 8th graders. Pumped to get started on how we can extend from the classroom to the community! #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay#iCivicsEdNet
#worldgeochat I'm looking for "Fast Finisher" ideas! Thinking of creating a bulletin board of activities they can do if they finish early. So far I have vocabulary practice, map skills, and current events (they can summarize, create a comic of the main points, etc). Help?!
A2A. Get kids excited about politics and government, send them home talking about it, and let parents engage with their kids. Have opportunities for people to register to vote- parents & students. Get out in your community. #sschat
BQ - It looks the same at elementary, middle and high school. Students wrestling with challenging issues, researching various points of view, proposing solutions and respecting each other for the effort. #sschat
A4 I like it is also important to model how to restore civility and relationship when things go badly- demonstrate how to say “oops” and “ouch” and use both to educate- something I learned from @FacingCHI#sschat
Q5: have a conversation about what they have learned. I think teachers should make their content visible to parents to facilitate the extension of classroom convo to the home. #sschat
BQ: in high school (at least in my classroom) Civic learning is all about empathy and trying to understand the other side. It’s teaching students to express their views in a respectful ways and defend their opinions with facts. As well as how to improve their community #sschat
A2B: I always encourage my HS Ss to vote with their parents/family members if they aren't 18. I offer *nominal* extra credit for post-voting selfies. It's crazy how much students like it.
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A5: As nerdy as it is, some of my favorite vacations as a kid were going to DC and colonial Williamsburg. As much as I complained at the time, these experiences stoked my interest in government and historical democracy #sschat
Q5: Kids often learn about civics, government, and social studies at school. How can parents support (or even reinforce) these lessons at home? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
One of my FAVORITE stories at a PTC was a parent telling me his child was more excited about getting her voter registration card than a college acceptance that arrived on the same day. #sschat
A2B: My 6yo daughter loves playing with us the "I'm thinking of a word that starts with the letter __" game. Sometimes we play the political version. She almost won last month with "George Papadopoulos". But I docked her points for saying the letter was "P" instead of G" #sschat
A3. I think some people are uncomfortable taking about government and politics because they don’t know a lot about it. But that’s a great opportunity to educate yourself and your child at the same time. Do it together and make memories while enforcers the importance. #sschat
@icivics A5 Just ask questions and validate the opinions of those you care about. That is the foundational support necessary for good citizenship. #sschat
Parents can't be afraid of the news upsetting their kids. We have so many middle schoolers come in with questions about news of the web. Gotta let them ask questions. #sschat
A5) Start by making sure your kids know their own history. Visit museums and landmarks at home and during family vacation. Discuss current events. Encourage kids to talk to grandparents and elders about history they lived through. Research and create a family tree. #sschat
Q5: Kids often learn about civics, government, and social studies at school. How can parents support (or even reinforce) these lessons at home? #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
A4 #sschat I think it is also important to show what to do when conversations become uncivil. Model how to say”oops” and “ouch” and use both to educate Ss on how to restore civility- I learned this from @FacingCHI
BQ - Democratic values are often a question of choices among two or more good things like equality, justice, freedom, security, diversity, etc. #sschat
A5. Help educate more about what gov does and not just fall into common ranting about all politicians being liars, gov being corrupt, public option being inferior or worse, useless. Get involved and teach them how they can be too. Citizens have roles too. #sschat#DemocracyAtPlay
A5: asking their student what was discussed in class is a great start. Allowing students to share their beliefs and why is important. Our students are much more aware and if they are allowed to talk about their beliefs in a safe spot they can truly blow you away #sschat
Our school has in no way mastered civics at the elementary level, but we are proud to say we continue to look for ways to infuse it whenever we can. #sschat
A4. Talk about candidates, issues and elections. Help your kids evaluate info sources. Take them with you when you attend town meetings. Take them with you when you attend rallies. Take them with you when you vote. #sschat
So True! So True! My kids come home with so many stories from the lunch table... it's amazing. So we talk about it and pull out nonpartisan resources! #sschat#letsk12better#DemocracyatPlay
Parents can't be afraid of the news upsetting their kids. We have so many middle schoolers come in with questions about news of the web. Gotta let them ask questions. #sschat
BQ: Having discussions w/ my HS students; holding voter registration drives for my Seniors; having time to do mock elections, debates, campaigns; etc. #sschat
Agree. My kids are entering 7th and 9th and sometimes get very worried about particular news stories. We talk about the events fit into a longer history, what actions they can take, etc. My son has written to state board of ed about state assmts. #sschat
Parents can't be afraid of the news upsetting their kids. We have so many middle schoolers come in with questions about news of the web. Gotta let them ask questions. #sschat
@colonialwilliamsburg has a curriculum called #IdeaOfAmerica based off those essential tensions in American democracy. It was a major eye-opener for me when I first saw it. #sschat
"Model how to say”oops” and “ouch” and use both to educate Ss on how to restore civility
Ohmygosh that seems so obvious now, but I never really thought about it that way!
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#sschat@icivics Democracy relies upon these concepts for Elementary kids: Truth, Kindness, Fairness, Dialogue, Responsibility, Needs vs Wants, Environmental Protection https://t.co/XlffvCRKtO
A6: Well, @icivics of course! #DemocracyAtPlay#sschat But also the newspaper, even a local one, is always a great resource. Listen to @NPR on the way to/from school and discuss.
It's so important that schoolS and parents partner in the civic education of children. The echo chamber of ideas is a dangerous place unless everyone participates in the questioning of facts and ideas. #sschat
Hey #sschat! This Thursday at 9pm ET, #waledchat will be reflecting on one person in each of our PLNs that we would like to give a shout out to! We would love to have you! Here are the Q's: https://t.co/vXfBCviqyv
#sschat@icivics Democracy relies upon these concepts for Middle School kids: Power and Abuse, Limited Government, Common Good, Individual Rights, Climate Change https://t.co/XlffvCRKtO
Neat. I’d love that kind of experience for my own kids. I talk a little about political persuasions but I’d think it helps to have a large group discussion. #sschat
#sschat@icivics Democracy relies upon these concepts for High School students: Economic Justice, Voting, Service, Equality, Saving our Planet https://t.co/XlffvCRKtO
Sorry to have missed parts of the chat. I was making dinner. Looking forward to catching up later after the archives are posted at https://t.co/wB4qxdJJSV#sschat
A6: Obviously @icivics is a great start. Showing kids the importance of find reliable news sources. Watching/listening to the news; go to rallies together; in the orders of Nike: Just do it! #sschat
#sschat Here is a blog with resources to support @CivicEdNow proven practice of current and controversial issue discussions that you might find helpful! https://t.co/wdVm6Rwc8J
A6. iCivics games are gr8 entry pt for convos about gov and politics. @govtrack helps families see what's going on in gov't now and easy-to-use ways to contact their rep's. @Newsela can bridge levels for kids of diff ages to talk about issues. #sschat
