It’s Okay to Take Kids for Surveys
I voted a couple of weeks ago – a fact that my 10 year old son was very annoyed with when he was so nervous this morning to go to the polls. I had reasons to vote early this year, most of which should be obvious, but I did feel a slight regret that he would not be able to personally experience what is likely to be the election of a lifetime. …
A few weeks ago, I told you to make plans in advance for childcare on election day . Today I’m here to tell you that if you couldn’t find any babysitting and didn’t vote early, that’s okay. Children can be taken with you.
Most of the parents are trying to educate our children as good citizens. We give them housework to teach them how to contribute to the housework, we invite them to volunteer to involve them in our community, and we show kindness and respect for those around them. But another important part of good citizenship is a commitment to vote in every election – and this election is sure to demonstrate how committed citizens are right now to have their voices heard.
I know we are in the midst of a pandemic. I know the lines are likely to be long. Stay socially distanced. Bring a bag of snacks, bottled water and masks for everyone. Bring the kids red, white, and blue chalk to decorate the sidewalks with American flags as you wait in line.
You may have already spoken to them about the importance of staying informed, critical of news and politics, and participating in elections. But in fact, observation of how we do these things, will stay with them for a long time after our words disappear.
If you’re really feeling assertive, maybe even let them press a button to vote for you – just make sure they know to wait until you’ve made all of your choices.
This article was originally published in 2018 and was updated on November 3, 2020 to reflect current information and context.