The California Government for Kids

Have you ever wondered who makes the rules, builds the roads, or keeps your parks clean in California? That’s the job of the California government! Just like a school has teachers and principals to keep things running smoothly, California has leaders and helpers who work together to take care of the state.

Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand!

🏛️ What Is a Government?

A government is a group of people who make laws, provide services, and help keep things fair and safe. In California, our government helps run schools, roads, parks, fire departments, and more.

California is part of the United States, but it also has its own government just for the state.

🌟 The Three Branches of Government

California’s government is split into three branches, and each one has a different job—just like a team!

1. Executive Branch – The Leaders

This branch makes sure the laws are followed.

• Governor: The boss of the state! Right now, California’s governor is Gavin Newsom (as of 2025).
• The governor signs laws, manages emergencies (like wildfires), and helps run state programs like schools and health care.
• Other helpers include the Lieutenant Governor, Attorney General, and more.

2. Legislative Branch – The Lawmakers

This branch makes the laws.

• Made up of two parts:
  • State Assembly (like the House of Representatives)
  • State Senate
• These lawmakers meet in Sacramento, the capital of California, to talk about ideas, vote on laws, and help solve problems.

3. Judicial Branch – The Judges

This branch interprets the laws and makes sure they are fair.

• Judges and courts decide what laws mean and settle disagreements.
• The highest court in the state is the California Supreme Court.

🏙️ State vs. Local Government

Besides the state government, each city and town in California also has its own local government.

Local governments take care of:

• Police and firefighters 🚓🔥
• Local parks
• Trash collection 🗑️
• Public libraries 📚
• City rules and building projects

Your town might have a mayor, a city council, and other local helpers working to make your community a great place to live.

💰 Where Does the Money Come From?

The government needs money to pay for schools, hospitals, roads, and more. This money comes from taxes that people pay when they buy things or earn money. The government uses this money to help everyone in the state.

🧒 Can Kids Be Involved?

Yes! Even though you can’t vote yet, kids can still learn and make a difference:

• Write a letter to a lawmaker about something you care about ✉️
• Visit your city hall or the State Capitol in Sacramento 🏛️
• Learn about current events and talk about them with your family 🗞️
• Volunteer in your community or help with a class election

🧠 Fun Facts About California’s Government!

• 📍 California’s capital is Sacramento
• 👔 The governor lives in the Governor’s Mansion in Sacramento
• 🗳️ California voters can create new laws using ballot initiatives
• 🏛️ The State Capitol building is over 150 years old!

📚 In a Nutshell:

California’s government has three branches: Executive, Legislative, and Judicial

• The Governor is the head of the state
• Lawmakers meet in Sacramento to make rules
• Judges make sure laws are fair
• Local governments help run cities and towns
• Kids can learn, ask questions, and get involved!

So next time you ride on a smooth road, go to school, or play in a park, remember—California’s government is working behind the scenes to help make your state a better place! 🐻✨

Learn more about California's government with our California Constitution vs. U.S. Constitution Venn Diagram activity.