Facts In Action

While U.S. citizens must be 18 years old to vote, it is never too early to learn about voting, elections, and democracy in America. Teaching children about voting will show them how important each person is in a democracy and how citizens choose their leaders. Thus, this "In the Classroom" provides ways for you to effectively plan and teach your kids about voting as well as encourage and remind their parents about Election Day.

Vote on Classroom Activities

• Explain that voting is a fair way for groups of people to decide on important issues, and then allow them to vote throughout the day for the activities they would like to do. For example, allow them to vote on which book they would like to read.

Throw an Election Day Party

• Plan an Election Day party for children and parents and make it a celebration for the right to vote. Talk with the children about the upcoming election for President. Encourage them to ask their parents if they are going to vote, who they will vote for, and why.
• Give each child a self-stick name badge with the words "Your Vote Counts!" printed on them. Have them color it and take it home to their parents and relatives.

Reach Out to Parents

• Inform them of the positions and agendas of candidates, but remember that you cannot tell parents which candidate to support. (See above for information on the presidential candidates’ positions on early care and education.)
• Send letters/ e-mails to parents informing them that their children are participating in activities related to voting and elections.
• Assist parents in locating their local voting booths.
• Advise parents to talk to their children about voting and encourage them to bring their children with them when they vote on November 2, 2004!

Source: Bennett, Kathleen and Watson, Diana. (2004) Voting Curriculum for Preschool Classrooms and Family Child Care Homes, Associated Early Care and Education, Inc. For more information on the curriculum contact Diana Watson at (617) 427-4300.

Facts in Action, October 2004