A Tale of Three Branches

Our field-trip to all three branches of government in Arizona. 
We started off the field-trip by going to the governor's office.  The governor wasn't there but the kids were able to go into her conference room and see where she has meetings, addresses the media, and signs many bills into law.  Here are a few pictures of the kids enjoying this first branch of our state government.  

I later asked the kids if they knew what office would represent the governor's office on the federal level and Nathan immediately responded with the president's office.  Pretty great for a ten year old!

 

Brennan is pretty sure that he could deliver the Governor's speeches for her.

 

Yes, Seth is picking his nose.  But, with six kids, you have to take the picture where most of the kids look good.  Haha!

The Governor's conference table.  

(Some of these pictures are blurry as I was trying to go without the flash to get a brighter shot of the whole room.)

 

Seth just had NO respect...haha.

Next, we walked over to the Arizona Supreme Court building to get a look at the second branch of government...judicial.  

Here we are with my parents in one of the courtrooms.

We were also able to have our picture taken with Chief Justice Rebecca White Berch.

Next, we walked over to the House of Representatives to learn about the third branch of government...legislative.  We went onto the floor of the House...where laws are made...well bills are passed anyway.

If you are wanting to get your kids more involved in this very political climate, I would suggest a trip to your state capitol.  Even before teaching about the elections, take them down and let them see what these "elected officials" actually do.  And, it's nice for them to realize that the government officials are people...just like them.  Maybe you have a future legislator, judge, or governor right in your very own home!

More to come on ways to involve your kids in the election process and use it as a learning experience.

Most state capitols will do tours, just call and set it up. 

Also, most states have a gallery in their house and senate where you can sit and watch the voting and discussion.  Online viewing is available in many states as well.

It's always fun for me to listen to my kids playing "government" at home.  "Mr. Speaker, I would like to explain my vote." or "I'd like to call this meeting to order."  In a waiting room the other day, I heard them all swearing off being a lawyer and wanting to be a judge instead.  HA!