(How to Keep Your Cool While Your Kid Learns About “Social Justice Unicorns” in School)
Ah, the joy of sending your kid off to school! The little backpack is packed, the lunchbox is filled with slightly healthy snacks (hey, it’s the thought that counts), and your child is ready to tackle a day full of reading, writing, and… political indoctrination? Wait, what?
If you’re a conservative parent, you’ve probably found yourself sitting in the car, staring blankly into space, as your kid tells you about their teacher’s latest passionate speech about social justice, climate change, or how they’re pretty sure that capitalism is “evil” but haven’t quite figured out why. Sound familiar? Welcome to the world of conservative parenting in a liberal-leaning education system!
But don’t panic—while it may seem like the deck is stacked against you, there are plenty of ways to counterbalance the curriculum, promote conservative values at home, and help your kids think critically about what they’re learning. So, buckle up, grab a cup of coffee (you’re going to need it), and let’s dive in with some tips and strategies that will help you survive and thrive in this educational jungle.
1. Be the Cool, Calm, and Collected Counterpoint
First things first: Your kid is going to come home from school saying things like, “The government should provide free healthcare for everyone!” or “We need to tax the rich more!” They’ll likely have absorbed these ideas from the classroom, friends, or even a particularly enthusiastic guest speaker who may or may not have a subscription to Democracy Now!
Your move: Instead of reacting like your kid just announced that they’re running for president of the “Socialist States of America,” take a deep breath and calmly ask some follow-up questions.
- “That’s an interesting idea. What makes you think that’s a good solution?”
- “Who do you think would pay for all that? What would happen to the people who create jobs?”
- “How do you think we can balance helping people with making sure everyone can still be responsible for their own future?”
By asking questions instead of launching into a speech about the evils of big government (because, let’s be real, your kid is probably already tuning you out at that point), you encourage critical thinking. You also let them know that it’s okay to question things—and sometimes, things that sound good on paper don’t always work out in real life.
2. Create a Conservative Curriculum at Home (And No, It’s Not Just Fox News)
Sure, your child is learning all about the wonders of “environmental justice,” but what are they learning about American exceptionalism, the importance of personal responsibility, and the value of limited government? (Besides what you’re telling them at the dinner table, of course.)
It’s time to create your own mini-school at home—where the curriculum includes history, civics, and values from a conservative viewpoint. Here’s what you can do:
- History Lessons: Introduce your kids to American history with an emphasis on the founding principles of the United States. Explain the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and why freedom of speech, religion, and the press are essential to a thriving society.
- Civics at Home: Talk about the role of government at home, but also the importance of self-reliance. Let them know why conservatives support lower taxes, school choice, and a strong national defense. Explain that, while the government has its role, individual rights and responsibilities are paramount.
- Philosophers You Can Actually Agree With: Introduce your kids to thinkers like Thomas Jefferson, Ronald Reagan, and Margaret Thatcher—you know, people who get it. You can even go a step further and watch documentaries or read books that show the benefits of capitalism, free markets, and personal liberty.
- Use the News (Carefully): Instead of just focusing on what your kid’s teachers say about current events, use news sources that align with your values (like The Daily Wire, National Review, or even your local conservative radio station) to show them another side of the story. This isn’t about sheltering them—it’s about teaching them to think critically and form their own opinions.
3. School Choice is Your Friend (And No, You’re Not Being “Extreme”)
If your child’s school is particularly entrenched in liberal policies, you might start to wonder if there’s an escape route. (Don’t worry, you’re not the only one thinking this.) The idea of school choice can be a game-changer for conservative parents who feel like their kids are being exposed to a worldview that’s a little too left of center.
You may want to consider:
- Private or Charter Schools: Some private and charter schools offer more freedom in the curriculum and can provide a values-based education that aligns with your principles. Sure, there might be a price tag involved, but think of it as an investment in your child’s future—and in your sanity.
- Homeschooling: For some families, homeschooling is the ultimate way to take control of their child’s education. It allows you to choose the curriculum, teaching style, and values. Plus, you get to avoid those weekly encounters with the “it’s okay to share your lunch money with others” lesson that’s being taught in the name of “sharing.”
- Public School Advocacy: If homeschooling or private school is out of reach, you can still play a role in your child’s education by getting involved in local school boards or advocating for changes in curriculum. That’s right, you can be the voice of reason at those awkward school meetings where everyone else is talking about “equity” and “inclusivity.” Grab your chance to advocate for things like the Pledge of Allegiance, balanced perspectives on history, and the value of hard work.
4. Don’t Let the “Peer Pressure” Get to You
Let’s face it: kids are impressionable. If little Timmy is coming home saying things like, “Johnny said I’m racist because I don’t want the government to pay for everyone’s health insurance,” it’s time to remind them that peer pressure is not just something that happens with the “cool kids” at recess. It’s happening in the classroom, too.
Tip: Reassure your kids that having a different opinion doesn’t make them a bad person. In fact, it might make them the voice of reason when everyone else is chanting, “Free college for all!” Teach them that it’s okay to stand up for what they believe—even if their classmates think they’re “weird.”
Encourage them to respectfully ask questions when they hear something that doesn’t sit well with their values. And remind them that people who are too eager to label others aren’t always the ones with the most thoughtful opinions.
5. Get Involved (Before You’re Outraged)
One of the best ways to be an active conservative parent in today’s education system is to get involved. Whether it’s attending PTA meetings, volunteering for school events, or simply getting to know the teachers and staff, your involvement will help ensure that your child’s school values align more with yours.
If you’re really feeling bold, you can even run for a spot on the school board. Think of it as your chance to be the political hero your community never knew it needed. (And yes, you can totally wear a cape while campaigning—because why not?)
Conclusion: Conservative Parenting—It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Raising kids in a liberal-leaning education system may feel like you’re fighting an uphill battle, but with the right mindset and a little bit of humor, you can make sure that your children are not only prepared for the world of ideas but also empowered to think critically and stand firm in their beliefs.
So, whether you’re combating the latest “woke” initiative, questioning the history curriculum, or just trying to get your kid to understand why it’s totally normal to not want the government running everything, remember this: You’ve got this.
And if nothing else, just keep reminding yourself—there’s always coffee. And maybe a conservative book club you can start at home. 😉