It’s that time of (every four) year(s) again where we cast our vote and decide who will be our nation’s leaders for the next four-year term. Regardless of which party you are choosing to vote for, it’s never too early to start teaching your children about the voting process in America and the importance of doing so. Here are some helpful ways to get your kids involved in the voting process even if they’re under 18!
Kids’ Books on Voting
This Little President: A Presidential Primer by Joan Holub and Daniel Roode. This little board book is a favorite in our house. While it doesn’t directly discuss the election, it does talk about a handful of presidents and what they contributed to society during their time in office. (Also check out the other books in this series; we also love This Little Dreamer).
Vote! by Eileen Christelow. A really cute picture book told from the perspective of two dogs about a town who is voting for their new mayor.
So You Want to Be President by Judith St. George and David Small. This one has lots of fun illustrations and discusses what a president has to do in their role. It has lots of fun facts about the different presidents; e.g., how many presidents had the name James!
This is by no means a comprehensive list; if you are looking for more kids’ books on voting, check out Good Read’s list here.
Videos on Voting
Sesame Street Episode 1957 “Election Day” Watch as Big Bird and Snuffaluffagus learn about how elections work.
Voting for Kids | Why Voting is Important? – Election Day from Kids Academy. This is a short (under three minutes) animated video that teaches kids about voting and its importance.
The West Wing This is definitely one for older kiddos, but there are many great episodes throughout the entire series that discuss the importance of voting.
Kids’ Voting Activities
Hold Your Own Election. Grab an empty shoe box, basket, or tray, and decorate it with paper, stickers, or whatever you have around the house. Create fake ballots out of paper and write whatever it is you’re having your kids vote for on it. This can be a favorite food, movie, or even presidential candidates! This can be as simple or elaborate as you want.
Coloring Pages. This page has a lot of great free printable coloring pages for kids and adults alike to enjoy.
Read the Constitution. Specifically, Article II, which addresses the process of electing the president as well as the electoral college.
Take Kids with You to the Polls. This is obviously up to every individual family, and during a global pandemic is certainly not a possibility for everyone. If you plan to vote by mail, fill out your ballot with your kids and explain to them the importance of voting regardless of if it’s in person or via absentee ballot.
These are just some simple and fun ways to get your kids involved in the voting process. Are there any special ways that you or your family celebrate Election Day? I would love to hear about them!
