Why Taking Your Kids to Vote Matters: Building Tomorrow's Citizens Today

"Democracy cannot succeed unless those who express their choice are prepared to choose wisely. The real safeguard of democracy, therefore, is education." - Franklin D. Roosevelt

Picture this: Instead of rushing to vote alone between errands, you arrive at your local polling place with a curious child by your side. Yes, the lines will probably be long, and yes; most kids may find it difficult to wait but let's think of it in another way. Consider the fact that you aren't just bringing along a spectator – you are taking advantage of a new opportunity to shape your child's future.

Voting isn't just a personal decision; it's an expression of your values and a chance to shape both your community and your child's understanding of civic responsibility. By taking your school-age kids to the polls, you're not only contributing to the process but also instilling a sense of duty and empowerment that can last a lifetime.

"The most important political office is that of the private citizen." - Louis D. Brandeis

When you bring your children to vote, you're showing them that this "office" comes with real responsibilities – and real power.

Think about the first time you rode a bike or learned to cook. Chances are, someone showed you how. Voting is no different. When children watch their parents participate in the voting process, they're learning a vital life skill that no textbook can fully teach.

More Than Just a Field Trip

Your polling place isn't just a room with voting booths – it's a classroom for democracy in action. Here's what your kids might experience:

The excitement of community gathering for a common purpose
The understanding of the voting process
The power of peaceful decision-making
The importance of patient, respectful participation

Children are naturally curious about adult activities. Use their questions about voting to start age-appropriate conversations:

For younger kids: "We're choosing people who will help make decisions about our parks and schools."
For older children: "Let's talk about what issues matter to our family, friends, and neighbors and how different candidates might address them."

When children see voting as a natural part of adult life, they're more likely to become voters themselves. Research shows that children whose parents vote regularly are more likely to cast ballots when they are old enough to do so.

Having conversations based on policies and priorities also teaches them to become critical thinkers in other areas of their lives.

A Lesson in Diverse Perspectives

Your trip to the polls can also teach valuable lessons about respecting different viewpoints. As Eleanor Roosevelt observed, "Understanding is a two-way street."

Help your children understand that people might vote differently based on their experiences and beliefs, but everyone's voice and vote deserve to be heard.

Simple Steps for a Meaningful Experience:

Plan ahead. Tell your children you're taking them to vote
Explain what to expect at the polling place
Share why certain issues matter to your family
Answer their questions honestly and age-appropriately
Make it a special occasion. Take photos outside the polling place

The Long-term Effect of Teaching Kids to Vote

When you bring your children to vote, you're not just teaching them about a process – you're helping to ensure the future of our country. Each time a child witnesses the voting process, they're one step closer to becoming an engaged citizen. They learn that democracy isn't something that happens to them – it's something they participate in.

As election day approaches, consider bringing your children along. You're not just casting a ballot – you're casting the foundation for future generations of informed, engaged citizens. As Thomas Jefferson noted,

"We do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate."

Remember: Today's inquisitive children at the polling place are tomorrow's voters and community leaders. By bringing your kids with you and teaching them how to vote, you're not just teaching them about citizenship – you're showing them how to be citizens.

Additional Resources

For more insights about the value of making voting a family affair, check out these informative publications:

Protect Electoral Integrity and Enhance Voter Participation. National Academy of Public Administration.
The Influence of Parents, Families, and Peers on Civic Engagement. The Psychology of Citizenship and Civic Engagement.
Increasing Voter Participation in America. Center for American Progress.