Happy Summer all!
Now that July has begun and the 4th of July holiday is right around the corner, it might be a good time to consider why we celebrate this holiday and what we can share about it with our children during these political times.
Why do we celebrate it at all?
To refresh your memory, on July 4, 1776, the thirteen American colonies adopted the Declaration of Independence, declaring independence from British rule. A new nation based on liberty, equality, and self-governance was born—the good, the bad, the messy, and the ugly.
However…celebrating this year may feel more challenging to some in years past, given the state of the political discord in our country. These conversations are occurring now and may occur on the 4th in front of the children.
Here are a few concepts to model:
- Different Opinions Are Okay: It’s normal for people to think differently, and that’s okay.
- Work Together: Solving problems together can lead to great results.
- Be Kind: Treat everyone with kindness and respect, even if you disagree.
- Learn from Challenges: Use disagreements as a chance to learn and grow.
- Hope for the Future: Believe that things can get better and work towards it.
By modeling these behaviors, children can understand that even when there’s political discord, we can behave in a way that honors the freedom to disagree. This July 4th, as you enjoy the festivities, take a moment to help kids understand why this day is so special and instill in them a sense of pride and appreciation for the freedoms we celebrate, including the freedom to disagree.
Happy Independence Day!
Dr. Marnee