Uncomfortable Topics: What Not to Discuss in Front of Kids During Holiday Gatherings
When it comes to holiday gatherings, there’s a lot to look forward to: pie, cute dogs, catching up with loved ones, and the moment you finally get to loosen your waistband after a turkey feast. But there are also the dreaded tense conversations with family, especially when kids are listening. A recent Yahoo News/YouGov poll of over 1,500 Americans unveils which topics of conversation people are most averse to discussing around children during holiday gatherings.
Politics is at the top of the list, with 36% of respondents uncomfortable talking about it in the presence of kids, followed closely by finances at 34%. Community gossip is next at 27%, and current events at 15%. Female respondents were more hesitant to discuss touchy topics in front of kids, and younger respondents aged 18 to 29 were most likely to want to avoid political discussions (40%).
The poll found that these subjects can be difficult whether kids are present or not. Politics was considered the most stressful topic at holiday get-togethers, followed by finances and current events. Interestingly, only 10% of respondents considered community gossip to be stressful, despite being reluctant to discuss it in front of kids.
Conversely, topics like pop culture, sports, and family updates were deemed safe or enjoyable by most respondents, regardless of kids being present. Also, 26% of those surveyed said they didn’t feel uncomfortable with any of the suggested topics when kids were around.
Parents may want to avoid discussions about the election, Gaza, and daycare costs for their own sake. But if these debates do occur and kids are listening, there are ways to handle them.
Politics and Current Events
As war continues abroad and the 2024 presidential election nears, kids are likely to hear heated chatter about various hot-button issues. Political science professor Edmond David Hally suggests that kids can benefit from seeing adults engage in civil discussions with people who have different political beliefs. He urges people to understand differing opinions and keep discussions civil, emphasizing the importance of avoiding name-calling.
Finances
Many of us have financial worries, and passing that concern on to our kids is a common fear. Research shows that kids are more aware about money than we think, so it may be beneficial to have age-appropriate discussions about family finances and money management with them. While parents needn’t feel obligated to join in on detailed financial discussions, teaching kids good habits, like saving allowance, can set them on the right path.
Gossip
The poll shows that adults don’t mind gossiping when kids aren’t around. When kids are present, parents should consider what their children might take away from the conversation and whether it’s worth the risk of them repeating sensitive information. As kids grow, parents should make an effort to explain why they’re venting and what it does and doesn’t mean. Also, avoid using older kids as a sounding board if they aren’t ready or don’t want to get involved.
The Takeaway
In conclusion, holiday conversations can be stressful for many of us, and we often seek to protect our kids from that feeling. To learn more tips on navigating or avoiding uncomfortable discussions at Thanksgiving dinner, click here. And if all else fails, bring headphones for the kids.
