For a first kid’s own protection, the United States Secret Service knows where a president’s child is at all times. When moving from room to room within the White House, playing outside on the lawn, in the school classroom, at a concert, or on vacation. While this seems like an invasion of privacy, it helps keep the first family safe.

If a record were kept about where and how you spend your time, what would it say? Print this daily log, or make your own. Carry it with you for one entire day (a 24-hour period) and fill in where you are and who is with you. Make note of when you move from one place to another and how you got there. Did you walk, drive, ride your bike?

Ask one of your parents, a brother, or sister if you can keep a log on them for a day. Don’t forget to ask their permission. Remember, you’re not spying! And also remember that they have a right to be left alone in their private spaces. The Secret Service uses code names for the people they protect. What code names would you create?

After you complete the log, share it with your parent or sibling. How did it make them feel to have their movements recorded? How did you feel spending the day filling in the log?


Secret Service agents protect President Clinton (white sweatshirt) as he jogs. United States Secret Service