Civics Bits

Voting and elections are especially challenging for kids to understand. Nonetheless, it is important for them to begin to build an awareness of the importance of being informed so they can make the best choices possible as they approach voting age. This episode helps listeners organize the what and the why of elections.

This episode provides an example of what it means to vote, presented in a scenario to which most kids can relate. This is the first of three (at least) episodes about voting and elections.

This is the third of three episodes about bullying. In this episode we focus on the role of bystanders in both encouraging bullying behavior and helping to stop it.

This episode continues the discussion about government, this time at the level of the state. We explore the structure of state government as well as its role in the lives of its citizens.

In this second episode on bullying, we touch on the longterm impact that bullying behaviors can have on a person. We also explore what kids can and should do if they believe they are being bullied.

Thoughtful and aware citizens need to have the ability to recognize bullying behaviors so they can help stop it as quickly as possible. Having a consistent understanding or definition of what bullying looks like is an important place to start. In this episode we also share misconceptions about bullying.

Being a good, or active, listener is an important skill for good citizens. It is a way to show respect to others. In this episode, we explore why being a good listener matters, and some tips for how to practice this skill.

Government is a huge topic for all of us regardless of our age. When we consider the different layers of government - federal, state, and municipal -it can get very complicated indeed! This episode focuses on the roles and responsibilities of the federal, or national, government of our country.

Why do people say mean, unkind, or hurtful words? In this episode, we explore the reasons, or motives, that people might have when they say those words. We also explore a strategy for responding to hurtful words in a way that can have a positive outcome.

In this episode, we explore the power of words, especially the negative impact of mean and hurtful words AND the positive impact of supportive and kind words. This is an important topic that we will revisit often.