The Supreme Court of Missouri’s civic education committee has released a new activity and coloring book designed to help children feel more comfortable with the state’s legal system.
The booklet, "Kids in Missouri Courts," uses games, coloring pages and activities to teach children about court proceedings, courtroom staff, and basic rules of behavior.
Supreme Court of Missouri Chief Justice W. Brent Powell said the resource was created to demystify what can be a frightening environment for young people.
"Missouri’s courthouses are open and inviting to all, but going to court can be intimidating and downright scary for a child," Powell said. "This fear can occur whether the child is at the center of a case involving custody or a parent’s abuse or neglect, but it also can happen when a child is called to be a witness in court or even just accompanies an adult to court."
Powell added that the book is designed entirely from a child's perspective to be engaging and fun, serving as a tool for adults to prepare children for upcoming court appearances.
The project originated in eastern Missouri after an elementary school teacher in St. Francois County was preparing her students to visit a local judge. When she asked Judge Patrick L. King for educational resources to share with her students before the field trip, they discovered no such material existed.
King brought the idea to the state's civic education committee. Committee member and retired state Supreme Court Judge Patricia Breckenridge spearheaded the development team.
Joe Goff, a St. Louis attorney and committee chair, praised the collaborative effort.
"I am so thankful for the leadership and devotion of Judges Breckenridge and King and the creativity and talents of everyone who made this project into reality," Goff said. "I am proud of the new activity and coloring book, which will be an exemplary resource for Missouri children going to court for any reason."
The "Kids in Missouri Courts" booklet is free and available for download on the state's civic education website, Discover Missouri Courts at www.courts.mo.gov/page.jsp?id=234433.
