Talk About Voting
Election Day is in two days (we hope you have a plan to vote!), and the young people in your life are definitely aware of it. They’ve probably also noticed that many adults are very emotionally engaged this year. Seeing that without being looped into what’s going on can be scary for kids, so please talk to your kiddos about voting! Here are some things to think about when you do:
People are not their offices - separate the importance of voting from all the nastiness around elections, and reinforce that, on many issues, there can be disagreement without one side being “bad.”
Our values inform our votes - talk to them about how your beliefs affect how you vote, but let them decide if they'd vote the same way. It’s okay to present both sides of an issue. Ask lots of questions, and be prepared to answer some as well.
It's important to look deeper - make them aware of how political ads and speeches appeal to emotions, and encourage them to view such things with a critical eye.
Local engagement matters – make things more tangible by discussing the local offices and issues being voted on, and how the outcome affects people you know or see often. Discuss other aspects of civic life, like volunteering, in which even young children can play an important role
Voting is for everyone - talk about why people do and do not vote. Walk them through the process of registering and voting. Let them see (maybe even help!) you do the research necessary to make informed choices. If your local laws allow, let them come with you to the polls. You can even give them a taste of what the process feels like by letting them vote on things like what to have for dinner, or which movie you all watch together.
If you'd like to read more about preparing your young people to be engaged, informed voters, check out these links:
Good Housekeeping: The Right Way to Talk Politics With Your Kids
Portland Mom Collective: How to Talk to Your Older Kids About Voting
Begin having these conversations slowly if you need to - just be sure to begin! Child development experts agree that kiddos as young as three have some understanding of politics, but less than half of 18- to 29-year-olds voted in the last national election, so it's never too early to open the lines of communication – perhaps over your next family dinner.