So I’ve got 6 kids 16 down to 7, I am highly opinionated and vocal at home. My husband is cool with it but one of my kids has no filter and has said stuff at school. He is 14 so I told him to be careful what he says but he likes to joke around and he asks lots of questions. I have told him never apologize for being who you are, especially as he is a white child and CRT is seeping into our district. I like to keep my kids educated on the evils of the world, to think critically, and trust their intuition… but sometimes I worry it’s too much. My daughter, fine now, but part way through covid would cry at night worrying we would die. Granted she is a very passionate girl so I expect some drama, and she is 9. I let them listen to X22 with me and they constantly want to know what I am reading or anytime I talk to their dad. Am I wrong?
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I don't think it's wrong at all to be honest when talking to kids. Level with them about what is happening and what you expect to happen in the future. Kids will absorb it better than you'd think.
However, it's wrong to lay burdens on the kids so that they feel helpless. Kids can build things up in their minds. That's not right.
Instead, give your kids the facts that they can handle... but then give them things THEY CAN DO to help. Give each one particular jobs (within their abilities) in the family and explain how vital it is that we all pull together.
For example; Get the younger kids to work with you in helping organize the food pantry. That way, you can make sure you have enough food for 2-weeks in case things go wrong. It teaches the kids to read labels, read expiration dates and organizational skills.
Give one of the kids a job of checking batteries, re-charging batteries and plug-in devices once per week.
Give one of the kids a job of checking water, charcoal, matches and other inventory once per week.
Give one of the kids the job of checking on elderly neighbors once per week. Give little kids a pellet or BB gun and spend a few hours each week practicing shooting with them. Teach older kids basic self-defense including how to use available weapons effectively.
More than that, spend a day per week teaching a little about emergency preparedness. If your kids can't swim... then fix that and make sure they can. If they can't cook or grill... make sure they know how. Have a family meal cooked over an open fire or grill, which the kids cook while you supervise.
Kids respond to things like that. They won't get nervous and feel helpless... if they know there are things they can do to prepare. You may find that the kids excel when they understand that they can play an active role in helping. Your son may also learn not to draw attention to himself, which is a lesson you should also impart as part of family preparedness.