It's going to be quite a week -- our country will celebrate both Election Day & Veteran's Day.  These are two days that are very important to discuss with kids but many times kids aren't old enough to understand their significance.

Books are a great way to kick-start a discussion.  And it doesn't have to be a book specifically related to the elections or war.  Introducing fun books that cover topics important to Americans is a great way to begin a conversation.

There are some really great chapter books that can be read aloud to kids of all ages, or will be enjoyed by kids who read to themselves.  These books engage kids in the story while also weaving in some historical ideas.  And they'll ask questions too -- and that's what you want!  Kids that are interested enough to ask questions are receptive to a discussion.

Capture the Flag by Kate Messner

Why I Love It: 

An engaging mystery that revolves around the theft of a national treasure! 

First, I adore that the book follows 3 kids who meet at an airport as they work to find the culprits who stole the flag that inspired "The Star-Spangled Banner".  Any child will connect with at least one of the characters (Anna, Jose & Henry).  And the concept is just so dead-on; whenever I travel with my kids, they are always making new friends and finding things they have in common!

While the kids are combing the airport for evidence, the adults are caught up in their own world of politics, media and misrepresentation.  One of the best lines from the book that summarizes the story for me:

"Let's see....three kids sneaking into the baggage-handling department of an airport without an adult going with them or even knowing where they are. Oh! And there's a big guy with a tattoo around here somewhere who may be trying to kill the next president....Can't imagine why you think it's risky."

What kid wouldn't want to learn how this story turns out!

The book also has many opportunities for conversation starters -- how is the media involved in our political system, what historical groups influenced our country, and the concept of 'innocent until proven guilty' are just a few great topics that can be introduced.

More For Kids:

Kids will enjoy checking out Kate Messner's website where they can explore some of the places she has visited and how she includes them in her stories.  She also has a nice list of 'what to read next' recommendations that will connect kids with new authors.

Capital Mysteries Series: 

Turkey Trouble on the National Mall by Ronald Roy

Why I Love It: 

These books offer a fun way to learn about some of the traditions and history of our country!  Each of the books in this series is a mystery revolving around a location in Washington DC.  Kids will learn some cool facts and historical stories about the country as they read the books. 

Turkey Trouble is great for this time of the year (with Thanksgiving being so close too) and many kids may not be aware of the tradition of the President pardoning a turkey.  My daughter is devouring this series quicker than she eats pie at Thanksgiving :-)  I highly recommend this series to any family planning to visit our Nation's capital.

You May Know the Author From:

Ronald Roy also writes the popular A to Z Mystery Series that kids adore!!  If you're kids have read those, they will LOVE the Capital Mysteries.

The Counterfeit Constitution Mystery by Carol Marsh

Why I Love It:

 This book series combines history, geography and on-the-edge-of-your-seat reading into fun mysteries for kids!  Marsh does an excellent job of weaving humor and education into her fictional stories.

Each book takes place in a famous location -- this one is set in Washington DC.  There's a problem with the Constitution and the two main character are kids (Christina & Grant) are on the case! One of the unique things about the Carol Marsh Mysteries is that

Explore More Fun:

Learn some fun facts about the Constitution and explore more online activities & games at the Carol Marsh Mystery website!

In addition to books, there are also some other great resources that help kids learn more about the workings of the government.

Schoolhouse Rock

 Parents might remember some of these fun videos from when they were younger.  Schoolhouse Rock takes historical events and creates catchy educational songs to go along with them.  This series is the reason many kids know the 'Preamble to the Constitution' or 'How a Bill Becomes a Law'.

In addition to history, the series also covers math, grammar, environmental issues and cultural information.  You can find Schoolhouse Rock videos both online and on DVD (check your local library too!).

Ben's Guide to the US Government

 This is an amazing online resource for kids and families wanting to learn more about our government.  The website shares tons of age-specific information about our laws, symbols, citizenship and the election process.  There are also fun games and activities to explore too!

Helping kids to understand our country and how it works is great thing to do!  I feel that it's one of our civic duties - to educate the next generation.

Sometimes the processes we use appear complicated to children so it's important to explain things in a way they will understand.  For example, young kids won't be able to comprehend the terms 'democratic' and 'republican', but they can understand that different groups of people like different things.  Explain it in terms of how they and their friends choose to different activities to do at school or during recess. 

The most important thing to convey to kids is an understanding of what we as citizens believe is important - freedom of choice, freedom to vote, respect for those who serve our country and the 'rules' we live and govern by {the Constitution and the Bill of Right}.

Be a good example for our kids this week: get out and vote, and remember those who have served our country! 

Take Care ~ Jacquie

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I received a copy of 'Capture the Flag' for review but no other compensation for this post.  All opinions and recommendations are always my own. Any copies of books that I receive for review are donated to school libraries, local charities or deserving families.

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