November elections are here, and it’s a great opportunity to model a civic duty to children. As we cast our votes, whether in person or by mail, we are demonstrating the power of democracy and supporting our communities and country. Children of all ages can begin learning why voting matters and how they can create positive changes.
Michael Grinder, a communications expert, shared, “The power of influence is greater than the influence of power,” Children are more likely to model more of what we do than say. Over 80% of parenting is modeling behaviors; so, kids and voting seem like a no-brainer. Bring your child(ren) along to cast your vote and/or gather resources to explain its significance.
Kids and voting: We say bring your child to vote
In 1989, Florida’s lawmakers passed statutes that “encouraged citizens to exercise their right to vote without impediment or undue influence from others when casting their vote.” As a result, these subsections of the law “do not prohibit minor children from being in the voting booth with parents, or guardians, or others having the responsibility of minor children as long as the child’s behavior does not impede others in exercising their right to vote.”
On voting day, make sure to prepare your child for the long lines and the long wait (depending on your polling station). Remember that everything about children, especially something that seems tedious, is all about preparation. Talk to them about the importance of practicing your right to vote, especially as a woman or a person of color. Talk to kids about voting as much as possible to prepare them for this day.
Educational resources for kids and voting
If you’re feeling overwhelmed about kids and voting and teaching them everything, don’t worry we got you covered!
For Children Enrolled in Preschool and Elementary School
- The Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Kids provides age-appropriate activities for young voters by incorporating reading, math, sorting skills, and so much more.
- Kids Voting USA offers printable puzzles, coloring sheets, short stories, and more.
- The local library is a great place to visit for tons of educational resources for all ages.
Not only that but you can incorporate “voting” in everyday life. For example, you can organize a family vote on what movie to watch, what playground to visit, or what to have for dinner. Explain that everyone in the family gets one vote. Then, the movie, playground, or meal with the most votes wins. Have your child count up the votes and announce the winner!
For Teens Enrolled in Middle to High School
Orlando’s Orange County Supervisor of Election office offers resources and activities just for teens explaining the importance of election, exercising their right to vote, and creating policies they wish to see implemented in their communities.
Educators and administrators can request speakers and class presentations to support teens as they learn more about their civic duties.
From driving to legal matters, we can equip our children with all the tools needed to be successful at fulfilling their civic responsibilities.
Voting is a powerful act that shapes our communities and country. By bringing children to the polls and teaching them about civic engagement, we empower the next generation of voters. Kids and voting go hand-in-hand. Discussing issues that impact society and modeling thoughtful voting teaches kids to be active, engaged citizens. Equip them with age-appropriate resources to understand the election process. Their future votes will be informed by memories made at your side. This November, show kids that the civic duties we carry out today build the democracy they will inherit tomorrow. Kids and voting are an important pairing, demonstrating that their voice matters too.
We’d love to hear from you. Share in the comments or tag us on socials @orlandomomcollective with pictures of your family’s voting experience.
Happy Election Day!
