Developing Citizenship and Patriotism In Your Child

Citizenship requires doing our share for our community and our country. Being a good citizen means caring about the good of society and participating actively to make things better.

Research reveals that participating in community service programs and learning about the importance and value of
serving others can be a powerful influence on positive character development.

Patriotism is an important part of good citizenship. Patriotism is love of and loyalty to our country. It involves honoring the democratic ideals on which the country is based and expecting elected officials to do the same, respecting and obeying its laws and honoring its flag and other symbols. It also involves accepting the responsibilities of good citizenship, such as keeping informed about national issues, voting, volunteering and
serving the country in times of war.

What You Can Do

· Take your child with you when you vote. Talk to him about the candidates, the offices they aspire to hold
and their positions on key issues.

· Participate in community-building activities, such as cleaning up parks and assisting with school activities.
Discuss citizenship with your child and find examples of what good citizens have done for their communities.