Let’s face it, we are all different, with different thoughts, ideas, beliefs and perceptions. That can make for some challenging conversations, especially when the differences of opinions are strong.

So, as we prepare to gather with family, friends and loved ones during this season MediaWise, Poynter’s media literacy initiative, collaborated with our Ambassadors to roll out a series of tips to help you navigate difficult conversations this holiday season.

Oh! And here’s the great part: These tips will help you if you are talking with acquaintances or strangers you just met at that big New Year’s Eve party!

Turn down the temperature and drop the heated debate

Engage in real dialogue. How do you do this? By simply asking open-ended questions. Open-ended questions are ones that are thought-provoking and generate depth in the conversation. Don’t place blame or shame, but rather ask questions in a way that generates thought. Offer to research a topic together and learn together. Finally, listen, simply listen. Check out more on this tip by hearing from Hari Sreenivasan, MediaWise Ambassador and host of “Amanpour and Company” on PBS in the video below!

Share the truth in the form of a sandwich

If someone says something that might not be exactly accurate, you can help share truthful information in the form of a truth sandwich. This is where you layer the incorrect information between two truthful statements. Check out the video below by MediaWise Ambassador and NBC journalist Savannah Sellers for tips on how to create a truth sandwich and demonstrate empathy this holiday season. Oh! And let’s not forget … a truth sandwich is just as easy to prepare as your leftovers!

Practice civil discourse

Politics can cause tense conversations, especially this time of year. Have no fear, with these civil discourse tips those tense conversations can become as easy as pie. First ask questions, but be sure to make it a conversation, not an interrogation. Offer to find credible sources together. Remember, civil discourse is just as much about civility towards you as it is about the person you are talking with. And as much as you want to help, sometimes it is better to not escalate the situation and simply walk away. Get more tips from MediaWise Ambassador Chris Vazquez and learn about debating the X-Men relaunch!

Pick up a newspaper

Wait, what?! Yes, put down your digital devices and pick up a newspaper! Media literacy applies to all forms of media consumption, including newspapers, and you can have civil discourse discussing the articles. Check out your local newspapers in your community. Don’t have a way to get a newspaper? Check out your local library. They have more than just books; they carry newspapers, too. Who better to give us newspaper tips than MediaWise’s newest Ambassador, Kelsey Russell, who has the fabulous idea of a Gen Z No Device (and go buy your local paper) Day!

This holiday season and every season, we here at MediaWise are here to help you navigate difficult conversations and practice civil discourse. Stay tuned to @mediawise on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube for these tips and many more all throughout the year.