Between social media and the volatile state of current politics, tweens and young teens are more politically aware than ever. Many would like to take part more in the political process – after all, even though they can’t vote they are still constituents! And since most kids won’t have school on Election Day anyway, we asked our readers what they do with their kids on election day to help them be a part of this important process.
- Caroline: “Have a bake sale in front of the neighborhood polling place!” This is something several schools already do as fundraisers so you can sign up with your kids to volunteer.
- Jen: “Volunteer with a candidate or organization to canvass with an adult outside of the polls or knock on doors to make sure people are voting!”
- Rachel: “We took my tweens to help people vote, drive people to the polls, and help people get to the booth in senior housing.”
- Moira: “In the next month, tweens can also help with phone banking and postcards to voters. There is even texting to voters, which is done via computer, not using your personal info, that needs volunteers.”
- Leah: “They can ask their teachers, coaches, and leaders if they voted. If they are on social media, they can post, ‘Have you asked your parents who they are voting for?'”
- Lisa: “My kids sit at the polls with me and hand out stickers.”
- Jane: “Kids can make signs and banners to hang in your window to encourage people to vote.”
- Jon: “Encourage kids to inform themselves about where politicians stand on the issues that matter to them – this will make them educated and informed advocates!”
- Evelyn (age 5) “Don’t be a litterbug on Election Day.”
Here are some tips from a local committeeperson on things young people can do to create political change.
And here is another great list of ways kids too young to vote can impact elections.
What would you add?
