Background information and ideas to help K-12 social studies teachers teach about local government are provided in this guide. Activities that involve the study of local governments may be a means by which positive attitudes and skills for citizenship education can be developed. Such activities can give students first-hand experience with the workings of democratic government. The guide begins by discussing the various forms of local government, e.g., counties, townships, and city governments. Current educational practices regarding local government are discussed. Basic goals for the teaching of local government are listed, and how such a study can be integrated into the K-12 social studies curriculum is examined. Practical suggestions for classroom activities that focus on the study of local government are provided. Tips to help teachers involve community personnel and use local facilities are discussed. Some often asked questions about local government are answered, and steps for developing a local government simulation are presented. The guide concludes with an annotated list of materials that offer practical suggestions for resource material for classroom use. (RM)