The issue with the American discourse is that it is not just about vaccinating kids. The discussions that dominate the media present the two extreme alternative

The issue with the American discourse is that it is not just about vaccinating kids. The discussions that dominate the media present the two extreme alternatives: "vaccinate yourself and the kids, wear a mask when requested, etc. etc., and basically be a sheeple" vs "Fuck it, COVID doesn't exist, or, if it does, natural immunity is best, and my liberty is more important, ra-ra-ra." (before the pedants pounce: exaggerated for effect, obviously) If the discussion was "we broadly agree on everything, it's just a question of vaccinating the kids", then sure, I can imagine the dialogue being more civil.