As the 2024 Presidential Election approaches, children will likely hear or learn about bits and pieces of the process. Whether the debate is playing in the background or students are learning about democracy in class, some young adults might show interest in the election. With the nation buzzing with conversation, the presidential election offers a time to teach young adults about democracy, critical thinking, and misinformation on social media.

WHY UNDERSTANDING DEMOCRACY MATTERS
Teaching democracy to children can be as simple as telling them their voice matters. This can encourage children to voice their opinions on topics they’re passionate about, building confidence and a sense of empowerment. Children can also benefit from learning that their choices matter and impact their communities.

For older teens who are showing interest in the election, discussions about democracy can help them better understand the world and the country we live in. Depending on their maturity level, exploring concepts like freedom and comparing other countries to the U.S. can broaden their perspectives.

OPINIONS ARE TRENDING
In today’s digital age, social media plays a significant role in shaping how information is consumed. While it can be a powerful tool for learning and connection, it also poses challenges, particularly when it comes to misinformation.

For teens following the election, take the time to explain that it’s important to fact-check information seen on social media and explain how clips can be taken out of context to appeal to specific audiences. Moreover, technology is constantly evolving, and this includes “deepfakes,” which are realistic-looking videos or audio created by AI to make it seem like real people are saying or doing things they never actually did. Deepfake videos and sound bits are circulating social platforms, and it is becoming increasingly more difficult to determine what is real and
what isn’t.

When discussing social media, it’s important to also discuss algorithms with preteens and teens. The algorithms that drive social media feeds are designed to show users content that aligns with their interests. Whether it’s a specific TV show, celebrity, activity, or opinion, algorithms are intended to keep users engaged and using the app. While this can make the online experience more engaging, it also means that people are often exposed to information that reinforces their existing beliefs rather than challenging them.

Encourage young adults to research topics further and engage in conversations to understand different viewpoints instead of solely relying on social media for news. This will not only help them when they’re old enough to vote, but it will make them critical thinkers and well-rounded adults.

TEACHING YOUNG ADULTS TO FACT-CHECK
Given the prevalence of misinformation online, it’s crucial to teach children how to fact-check and verify information. Here are some practical steps parents can take to help their kids navigate the ever-changing digital landscape:

1. Encourage Critical Thinking: Teach children to question the sources of information they encounter online. Who is providing this information? What are their motivations?
2. Promote Media Literacy: Introduce the basics of media literacy, like recognizing biased or unreliable sources and understanding how to cross-check facts with reputable sites.
3. Discuss the Impact of Misinformation: Help them understand the real-world consequences of misinformation and the importance of making informed decisions.
4. Encourage Open Dialogue: Foster an environment where children feel comfortable discussing what they see online. 

As the country prepares for the 2024 Presidential Election, consider using this time as a teaching moment, where young adults earn valuable skills to help them later in life. Learning about democracy and social media misinformation will teach teens to be critical thinkers and help them understand that their voices and actions matter.