Babies to the Max: Washington, DC: Seat of Government

Our civics lesson about the three branches of government and series of checks and balances did not make much of an impact on Max, but he can proudly tell you the address of the White House! (And baby sister can tell you who lives at the White House!)

Executive Branch:

Hello, Mr. President!

Max appeared a little disappointed by the fence. I think he envisioned being able to run around on the front lawn!

A political protest outside the White House provided another teaching moment about the right to assemble. And also about words that are not appropriate for six year olds.

Future President Richards

Legislative Branch:

The Capitol

Attempt at a family selfie

We had not planned to do a tour inside the Capitol because of Max's age, but we couldn't resist the invitation from a friend of Jason's for a tour led by a Furman intern with the option to leave early if needed.

The Dome was partially covered due to renovations.

Old Senate Chambers

Statuary Hall

Ole John C. Calhoun

Standing at the point of origin for Washington's streets and quadrants

Judiciary Branch:

The Supreme Court

Our little patriot!

America's government wasn't the only one that interested Max. His school studied Tanzania in the spring, learning about the culture through food, activities, and even a special zebra visitor to the school, so we sought out the Embassy of Tanzania. Max immediately recognized the flag flying over the embassy and we dropped in to say hello!

Max marched inside and informed the receptionist that he had studied Tazanzia in kindergarten, his friend Ford's mom had made a video about living in Africa, and how much he wanted to visit Tanzania in the future. The embassy workers made a huge fuss over him, even taking his picture for their official archives. He was introduced to the Defense Attaché and impressed him by counting in Swahili!