The last day of voting is almost upon us on November 3rd and you know we were going to find a way to bring kids into the national conversation about voting. We’re happy to share with you some fun kids books that open and delve into the conversation about voting with our little ones.
For the kiddos, here are 5 books about voting. With the elections 2 weeks away, it’s a perfect time to snag these goodies at your local library or add them to your home book collection. Just like other topics on justice and equity, it’s important to start the conversations early and often with kids. And don’t be afraid to name the reality of our current government and its impact on everyday people in ways that are child-appropriate.
Our 5 recommended kids books about voting are:
Stacey Abrams and the Fight to Vote by Traci N. Todd
VOTE! By Eileen Christelow
Otto For President by Rosemary Wells
Etta Extraordinaire Goes To The White House by Roda Ahmed
A Vote Is A Powerful Thing by Catherine Stier
Did we miss your favorite kids book about voting? Drop the name in the comments section for others to also see.
As our kids get older, it’s important to bring them into the voting process. Here are some ways to include kids in your own voting:
Work with your kids to make a voting plan. And then help 5 people in your life to make theirs. Every election is super important but this one has the potential to make a difference in our fight against this fascist government. The United States is not the center of the world but it certainly has an outsized impact on the rise of fascism globally. If we win this election resoundingly, the ripple effects will be powerful for now and the future.
Take out the calendar and together you can mark November 3rd as the last day to vote. BUT it’s NOT the only day to vote. Many states have early voting and the rules are different per state. Do your research and get to the polls. AND there’s no judgement if you do vote on November 3rd. Just make sure you and your kiddos research the times the polls close so you get your vote in.
Voting is but one tool in our fight for safety and care for everyone. We aren’t under the illusion that all will be fine once there is a shift in power. We will need to keep fighting, keep putting pressure on elected officials and keep hitting the streets to see the change we need. But don’t underestimate the power of voting and the sacrifices made by our ancestors to give us the right to vote (and not all of us citizens have that right. Some people who are formerly incarcerated can’t vote).
As we prepare to end what has been a particularly brutal election season with escalating attacks on our freedoms, efforts to cast doubt on the voting process and attempts to distract us from the fight ahead, it’s important for us parents and educators to remind our kids of the power and joy of voting. We get a say in our democracy. Yes, voting won’t solve it all but a healthy election is a sign of better times to come.
That’s it from us for today. Hope you have an amazing week. It’s about to be a tough few weeks. Care for yourself and your kiddos. We are sending lots of love to you and yours.
Tabitha & Adam