Proud to be an American.
It may surprise you to learn that patriotism can protect teenagers from depression. That’s a bold statement, but research increasingly shows it is worth considering.
Teens today struggle with the negativity perpetuated in public schools—fear of climate change, violence and unrest in society, and confusing messages surrounding gender have all contributed to growing anxiety and depression among America’s teens.
While there are many other factors to consider (see our article on 5 Ways to Protect Your Teen from Depression), feeling a deeper connection with country, family, and God has been found to contribute to a teen’s overall sense of well-being.
While teen depression rates continue to rise, patriotism among them has continued to decline, according to a Gallup poll conducted in 2023. The report found that “younger adults in all party groups are significantly less proud than older adults of the same political persuasion.”
It’s no wonder.
Schools no longer encourage patriotism. Most do not teach or require students to say the Pledge of Allegiance anymore. They do not celebrate Washington’s birthday or hear stories about him as kids once did. There is far more instruction on the sins of racism than in the virtues of Abraham Lincoln.
Cynicism has replaced optimism or love of country. Politics has replaced true educational instruction. And it’s taking a toll on our teens.
So what can we do?
It has been proven that character is established in the home. It is where faith, virtue and patriotism are developed. Winston Churchill said, “There is no doubt that it is around the family and the home that all the greatest virtues, the most dominating virtues of human society, are created, strengthened and maintained.”
As parents, grandparents, coaches, friends and extended family, we can make a difference! We don’t have to (and shouldn’t) rely on schools to instill faith, family values, or patriotism into our kids.
Here are 7 ways to raise patriotic teens and help instill hope and a sense of belonging they so deeply desire.
1. Talk About America Often
It may not seem like it, but what you talk about matters to your teen. They’re listening. And even if they don’t show interest, disagree, or roll their eyes, trust us when we say it’s sinking in.
When you share your patriotism and talk about America often, you’re showing your teen that love of country is something that matters.
This can involve sharing stories about military family members or sharing stories around the dinner table about different patriotic figures, courageous and strong heroes in history, and what they accomplished (don’t worry—you don’t have to be an expert—you can do a quick internet search and come prepared!). Ronald Reagan said, “All great change in America begins at the dinner table.” We agree!
As you pray over your meals, include a prayer for our nation, the healing of America, and for righteous leaders to be at the head.
Whatever you do, let your teen know that patriotism still matters and do so by talking about America often.
2. Visit Memorials
A powerful way to instill patriotism in your teen is to visit memorials. Sometimes it helps to let others do the talking and allow your teen to see things in person. You don’t have to go far to find these special places either. You can locate monuments and memorials in your area by scrolling through the comprehensive list on the National Park Service website. Be sure to make it a fun outing by including a trip to a nearby pizzeria or ice cream shop!
3. Take Patriotic Vacations
What better way to educate your teen about America than to combine it with a fun family vacation?
There are so many patriotic destinations from sea to shining sea that will help your teen feel like part of something greater than themselves. Experiences always speak louder than words. Take patriotic vacations with your teen. It’s a memory they won’t soon forget.
Need some ideas about where to go? Check out these 5 Patriotic Sites to Visit With Your Teen HERE.
4. Celebrate Patriotic Holidays
Most people celebrate the Fourth of July by taking a trip or attending a cookout, but to instill patriotism in your teen, make a point to commemorate patriotic holidays, including Veteran’s Day, President’s Day, Constitution Day (September 17), and Memorial Day.
And make it fun! Everyone likes a special occasion, so be sure to mark your calendar and plan to do the following:
- Decorate your home inside and/or out with fun and patriotic flair
- Find patriotic music to stream in your home
- Prepare or purchase patriotic-themed foods
- Talk about the meaning of the holiday at the dinner table
- Fly an American flag in your front yard
Take the time to discuss the importance and meaning of the day and teach your children the proper handling of the American Flag.
If the family has the day off from school or work, plan to visit patriotic sites, either locally or around the country. Seeing something in person has a much bigger impact than reading about it in a book!
5. Get Involved Together
Civic involvement is a wonderful way to raise patriotic teens! Volunteer work, community service, and participation in civic activities is the type of engagement that will help teens feel invested in their country and a sense of belonging.
Your actions speak more than your words about the importance of patriotism. Be sure you vote and share with your teen when you do, and help them register to vote when they turn 18!
In the meantime, here are some ways you and your teen can get involved in your community and with your country:
- Attend (and speak up!) at school board meetings
- Run for office
- Support someone running for office
- Serve veterans in the community
- Get out the vote at your church
Whatever you do, let your teen know that America is worth investing in and being proud of being a citizen.
6. Promote Unity and Respect
Division has grown more and more in this nation, and public-school curriculum and mainstream media only feed the negativity. You can help promote unity and respect for our country and its citizens by watching your own words. Express your opinions about policies, but do so without tearing others down. Additionally, limit the amount of mainstream media in your home, which does not serve to encourage you or your teen.
Teach your teen to respect members of our military and police officers, as well as elected officials. Share that it our free speech is important and we must both protect it and steward it well.
7. Stay Anchored in Hope
With so much negativity and a biased narrative in schools and the media, it is critical that you help your teen stay anchored in hope no matter what is going on around them.
Remind your teen of the victories to be had in our nation, not the grievances or atrocities that have occurred. Teach them to look to God for solutions, healing and guidance, not the government.
This will strengthen them, teach them to look at world events through the lens of faith and patriotism and bind your family together. When you have a strong family, you will have a strong society, which is the foundation of a strong nation!
When you put these 7 ways to raise patriotic teens to work, you will see a difference not only in how they view America, but in their own self-worth, as well. Let’s raise this next generation to value the blessings we have in our nation and to protect our freedoms for those yet to come.
