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11.01.2024
Why Voting Matters and 5 Ways to Engage Our Children: Election Day is November 5th
As parents, we strive to teach our children important values like kindness, responsibility and fairness. One of the most powerful lessons we can share with our kids is the importance of participating in our democracy through voting.
While voting might seem like an adult responsibility, it plays a significant role in shaping the future that our children will grow up in.
For families with young children, this article will explain why voting matters and how you can involve your kids in the process, even before they reach voting age.
Why Voting Matters
- Voting Shapes the Future
Every election, whether local or national, influences the future of our communities and country. The leaders we elect make decisions about schools, healthcare, the environment, public safety, and many other aspects of life that directly affect our families. By voting, we help shape the policies and decisions that impact the world our children will grow up in. - It’s a Fundamental Right and Privilege
Voting is not just a right—it’s a privilege that has been hard-fought for throughout history. From the women’s suffrage movement to the Civil Rights movement, many have fought to ensure that all citizens have the opportunity to have their voices heard.
Teaching children about this history helps them understand the significance of voting and the responsibility that comes with it.
- Every Vote Counts
It's easy to feel like one vote doesn’t make a difference, but history has shown that elections can be decided by just a handful of votes. Whether in small local elections or larger national ones, every vote contributes to the outcome.
When you cast your ballot, you’re playing an important role in shaping the future, and your vote can be the one that tips the scales.
- Voting Sets an Example for Your Children
Children learn by watching what the adults in their lives do. When parents prioritize voting, it sends a clear message to kids that civic participation is important.
By talking about why you vote and involving your children in the process, you demonstrate that being an engaged citizen is a key part of contributing to your community and making a difference.
How to Involve Your Children in the Voting Process
Even though young children are too young to vote, there are plenty of ways to involve them and start building a foundation of civic responsibility.
- Talk About Why You Vote
Start a family conversation about why voting is important. You can explain in simple terms that when we vote, we’re helping to choose the people who make decisions that affect our daily lives, like how our schools are run or how clean our parks are.
Use examples your children can relate to, such as voting for their favorite activity during family time or choosing what to have for dinner.
- Bring Them to the Polls
If possible, bring your child with you to the polling place on Election Day. This can be a memorable experience that shows them firsthand what the voting process looks like.
Explain what you’re doing as you wait in line, check in, and cast your vote. The experience can demystify voting for your child and make it feel like an exciting and important event.
- Create a Voting Activity at Home
One way to engage your child is by setting up a mock voting activity at home. For example, have a family "election" where everyone votes on a fun topic, like what to have for dinner or which family movie to watch. Create ballots, set up a "voting booth," and count the votes together. This makes voting feel real and meaningful for young children.
- Read Books About Voting
Storybooks can help children understand the concept of voting in an accessible and enjoyable way. Books like Duck for President by Doreen Cronin, Vote for Our Future! by Margaret McNamara, and Lillian’s Right to Vote by Jonah Winter can introduce your children to voting, elections, and why it’s important for people to have a say in their community.
- Teach the Importance of Civic Engagement Year-Round
Voting is just one part of being an engaged citizen. Teach your children the value of being involved in their community throughout the year. Whether it’s volunteering, attending local events, or writing letters to elected officials, showing them that their voice matters beyond Election Day fosters a sense of responsibility and empowerment.
Addressing Common Questions Kids May Ask
Children are naturally curious, and they may have questions about voting. Here are a few common questions and how to answer them in a kid-friendly way:
- Why can’t I vote?"You need to be 18 to vote because adults make decisions for our country. But you’re never too young to learn about it! One day, you’ll get to vote too."
- Who are we voting for?"We’re voting for people who will make important decisions about things like schools, parks, and our community. These people help decide what’s best for all of us."
- What happens if we don’t vote?"If we don’t vote, we won’t get a say in what happens. Voting helps make sure our voice is heard when big decisions are being made."
Voting Is a Family Value
Voting is one of the simplest yet most impactful ways we can contribute to our society. By involving your children in the voting process, you’re teaching them that their voice matters and that they have a role in shaping the world they live in. These early lessons can inspire a lifelong commitment to civic participation and responsibility.
As Election Day approaches, take the opportunity to talk to your children about voting, bring them along if possible, and make it a family tradition. After all, today’s young observers will be tomorrow’s voters, and the values you instill now will guide them when it’s their turn to step into the voting booth.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 5th Learn more about the Nevada 2024 Election on the Nevada Secretary of State’s website by clicking here. If you did not participate in early voting, make a plan to cast your vote on election day!
