 | ||
|
| |    Patriotism: Showing Your Love and Support for America by Lynn Cates, M.D., F.A.A.P. and Diane Foushée Chaney reviewed by Robert Needlman, M.D., F.A.A.P. Patriotism encompasses loving, respecting, and supporting your country. In recent years, prosperity and the lack of a common enemy have led many Americans to take freedom and democracy for granted, and to relegate displays--and even feelings--of patriotism to special occasions like the Fourth of July. In times of crisis, however, patriotism comes to the fore. It provides comfort and reassurance, and it serves as a potent defense against our enemies by helping to unite the nation. There are many ways you can be patriotic, and in so doing, help instill in your children a love for America and pride in the best that it represents. Show respect for others In America, respect for others lies at the very heart of patriotism. To quote Eleanor Roosevelt, "True patriotism springs from a belief in the dignity of the individual, freedom and equality not only for Americans but for all people on earth, universal brotherhood and good will..." (Book of Common Sense Etiquette, 1962). You can teach your children how to respect others by setting a good example--not only by treating everyone with equal respect, but also by celebrating our country's diversity. Other ways to demonstrate respect for others include helping those who are in need by volunteering and contributing to charitable causes. The flag One of the most important symbols of all that America holds dear is the flag. You can begin teaching your children at a very young age how to respect our country's flag by displaying it properly. As they become old enough to memorize the Pledge of Allegiance, take time to discuss its meaning with them. Music Music is one of the best ways to demonstrate heartfelt love for one's country. Observe holidays and anniversaries Holidays and anniversaries of important events in American history are intended to be times for remembrance and reflection as well as for celebration. But all too often, we get caught up in their commercial and entertainment aspects and forget their true meaning. When national holidays come around, use them as an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be an American and to teach your children how each event they commemorate helped to pave the way for life as we know it today. Holidays to observe with your children include:
An excellent way to help your children learn about America is to visit museums, monuments, and natural wonders such as national parks. There are sightseeing treasures in virtually every state and most include child-friendly activities that make learning about our nation interesting and fun. Refresh your memory of history and government You can help your children realize the importance of their citizenship at an early age by teaching them how our country came to be the way it is today and how its government works to serve and protect them. People and events in American history (e.g., Native Americans, pilgrims, the Boston Tea Party, the gold rush, the Civil Rights Movement), and even the intricate checks and balances of our government (e.g., democracy, the three branches of government, the political process), can be made fascinating for young children if they are presented in age-appropriate ways. For example, you can create a "wagon train" at home, or you can try various kinds of ethnic foods and use these as opportunities to talk about America as a great melting pot. Once your children are old enough to appreciate their meaning, you might want to sit down together as a family and read the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. You can get more ideas at sites like www.askeric.org and http://members.aol.com/MrDonnHistory/American.html. Make your voice be heard It is a common misconception that one person's opinion doesn't count. In America, that is far from the case. You have the power to vote and the freedom to express your opinion, even if it goes against the mainstream or is critical of U.S. policies. There's no reason why children can't learn early on about the privilege (and the duty) of becoming informed citizens who vote and who make their sentiments known to their community and their elected leaders. For instance, during elections, they can accompany you to a polling place and help you pull the lever or punch the voting card. Once they're older, you can introduce them to groups that share their political interests and encourage their participation. Everyday patriotism There are many ways in which you and your family can demonstrate love and respect for your country in everyday life. Simple measures that add up when everyone pitches in include conserving natural resources, such as water and energy, and not littering. Hope for the future One of the most powerful attributes of patriotism is its ability to inspire optimism and hope for the future, because it reminds us of the trials this country has faced and overcome. Teaching your children about patriotism will help to prepare them for the task of keeping this country strong in the future.
| |  | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| About Us |
Contact Us |
Our Partners Privacy Policy | Ethics | Advertising Policy | Terms of Service © Copyright 2004 The Dr. Spock Company. All Rights Reserved. THIS SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. The information drSpock.com
provides is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for
professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your health care
professional if you have a specific health concern. Mention or advertisement
of any product, service, or brand does not constitute endorsement, guarantee,
or recommendation by The Dr. Spock Company. Please read our full
Terms of Service. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
