Bringing Children to Events

Children can play an invaluable role in the process of non-violent political action. In addition to the energy they contribute to the gathering, their presence at such events teaches them critical lessons about their role and responsibilities as citizens of a democracy. I've taken my children to large, national events and smaller, local gatherings and below you'll find a summarization of what I've learned. Many of the suggestions are tailored for events with huge crowds, but most are just as applicable to smaller gatherings.

1. Make sure you have a fully-charged cell phone on you at all times. It will likely become your most valuable tool if you become separated. Consider taking two-way radios if you’ll be in a large crowd.

2. Tuck your contact info into your children’s pockets. Take a moment to jot down your child’s full name, your name, address, home and cell phone numbers and slip it into your child’s pocket. Make sure they know it’s there and instruct them to approach a policeman immediately if they feel lost. They can present that piece of paper to a person of authority who can immediately connect the two of you.

3. Think creatively about how to stay close to your kids. Strollers and wagons can easily get tangled in crowds, so they’re not the best option in larger crowds. For smaller children, try using a baby carrier that straps to your body. Older children can stay close by with a child leash.

4. If riot police are present, introduce your children to them before the rally/march/protest begins. Horses and riot gear can frighten young children, but allowing your kids to meet the police (and possibly pet the horses) will help to de-stigmatize them. Explain that they’re there to help keep everyone safe. Riot police are usually only present at HUGE events.

5. Use the buddy system. If possible, attend the event with another family that includes children. Discuss before-hand how you’ll handle any disruptions or unforeseen events. Make a commitment to help watch each other’s children…the more eyes, the better.

6. Ensure they understand the context of the event. Explain the basic premise of the action, what you hope to achieve and why you feel compelled to participate. These concepts can be explained to even the youngest of children as long as you tailor the information to their age and level of understanding. Encourage your children to ask questions.

7. Prepare children for differing opinions and counter-protestors. The reasons that people attend rallies are as varied as the people who attend them. Some attendees have lost loved ones, some are scared of losing loved ones, others are angry at the current political powers and some just disagree with violence in general. Whatever your reasoning, explain (in the most basic terms possible) that people are there for different reasons and there may be some words, signs, etc. that you don’t agree with. Reiterate that all attendees are exercising important rights and that everyone is entitled to their opinion, even if you disagree. Model for them how to speak out responsibly.

8. Make them a part of the process. My children’s favorite part of the process is making the signs we’ll carry. Give them the materials for signs (posterboard, glue, glitter, ribbons, large markers, etc.) and let them decide what to say and how to say it.

9. Make sure they’re fed and warm! For more general information about preparing for rallies, please click here.