At every developmental stage this type of education takes a different shape in order to fit the needs of the learner. But, at every age, educating for democracy is about roots, rights and responsibilities. Knowing that they are loved and they belong, children can learn and try out the behaviors of their role models as well as experiment with other behaviors. Developing rules with their family, class, or other community group helps children develop trust that their opinions matter. When they see that everyone follows the rules, they develop trust that all will be safe.
Children develop deep, healthy roots when they spend time in safe places.
When we help children speak up for what they need and express their opinion, we are promoting democracy. When children learn about what other children might be feeling or thinking, they begin to think of the world as larger than themselves. Children are then more sensitive to others' cues and needs and eventually able to take another person's perspective. Viewing others more empathically helps children recognize that each of us has the right to be safe, to learn, to play, and to make friends. Honoring these human rights encourages children to make responsible behavioral choices.