Julie, I agree — there was so much rudeness on display last night.

I watched it with clenched teeth. Then I went back and let the kids see some key exchanges. (You might be happy to know that no black fingernail polish came out at any point of the proceedings.)

It was a good time to talk to the children about what real leadership looks like, as well as how to engage people in disagreements without coming across as shrill and aggrieved. The kids also asked a number of good questions about religion. Did Newt just eliminate all atheists from running for the presidency? Is that the correct way to think about it? Plus, we analyzed —and replayed — Romney’s answer on the Mormon question. (When we rewind our recorded shows to view segments again, we call it “breaking down the film.” Although it happens on American Idol more frequently than during debates, Romney’s religion answer merited a second viewing.)

Mostly, though, I think the kids came away from last night’s debate realizing that the presidency is a vitally important office — and that getting to the White House ain’t easy.

It’s a wonder why anyone puts himself through it.