Election Guide for Kids: How to Talk about the Upcoming Election
As election season approaches, you might be wondering how (or if) you should involve your kids. As they get older, it’s natural for kids to have questions about upcoming events. Engaging them in conversations about the election can be both educational and empowering. This guide will help you discuss the election with children of various age groups, ensuring they understand the democratic process and the importance of voting.
Election Guide for Kids: How to Talk about the Upcoming Election with Your Kids
Age-Appropriate Election Guide for Kids
Babies and Toddlers
At this stage, focus on very basic concepts and keep explanations simple.
Tips:
- Introduce Basic Vocabulary: Use simple words like “vote,” “leader,” and “choice.” For example, “Voting is how we choose our leaders.”
- Storytelling: Use stories to explain the concept of choice and leadership. You can create a story where characters vote to decide on an activity.
- Visual Aids: Show pictures of voting booths, ballots, and other election-related items.
Preschool and Elementary-Age Children
Children in this age group are ready for more detailed explanations and interactive learning.
Tips:
- Explain the Democratic Process: Use age-appropriate language to explain how voting works. For example, “In our country, people vote to choose who will make important decisions for everyone.”
- Election Day Activities for Kids: Create simple activities like a mock election where they can vote for their favorite snack or game. This can help them understand the process in a fun way.
On Election Day, take them with you to vote or to drop off your ballot. Talk about how their voice matters and let them rock the “I Voted” sticker for the day!
- Election Day Facts for Kids: Share interesting facts, like the history of voting or how elections are conducted in other countries.
- Election Day Videos for Kids: Utilize election day videos for kids to visually explain concepts. Short, animated videos can be particularly engaging.
Preteens and Teens
Preteens and teens can grasp more complex concepts and engage in deeper discussions about the election process.
Tips:
- Discuss Political Parties and Platforms: Explain the basics of political parties and what they represent. Encourage them to think critically about different viewpoints.
- The Election Cycle: Provide a detailed explanation of the election cycle, including primaries, caucuses, conventions, and the general election.
- Current Events: Discuss current events and how they relate to the election. Encourage them to ask questions and form their own opinions.
- Protests and Civic Engagement: Talk about the role of protests and other forms of civic engagement in the democratic process.
Check out The Kids Guide for a free download of different ways to talk to your kids about the election and our democracy!
Book Recommendations for Further Reading
Storytelling is an easy and powerful way to help our kids learn something new and get engaged with what they are learning. Here are some book suggestions to help explain elections and the democratic process to children:
- Duck for President by Doreen Cronin (Ages 4-8): A fun story that introduces the concept of elections and leadership.
- Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio (Ages 5-9): A story about a girl who learns about the presidential election and decides to run for school president.
- What's the Big Deal About Elections by Ruby Shamir (Ages 8-12): Provides detailed information about elections in an engaging and accessible way.
Teaching children about elections helps them understand the importance of participation in the democratic process. By tailoring your discussions to their age and interest level, you can make the topic engaging and educational. Most importantly, don’t stress! Trust your gut when it comes to introducing topics to your kids. Every kid and difference and some might be more open and ready to discuss complex topics than others. Use your best judgement to decide what’s best for your family.
For more tips on low-stress parenting, visit our Low-Stress Parenting Guide.
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