Raising kids who vote

If you ask any group of kids whether they’d like to play soccer or tug-of-war, one thing’s for sure: Every child will want their vote to be counted! We can encourage our kids to become voters and help them learn through play. Check out these ideas to get started.

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Between our kids' elementary school years and the time they reach the voting age of 18, they lose steam. Four years ago, only 41 percent of registered 18- to 20-year-olds showed up to vote in the presidential election.

We want our kids to be less intimidated by the word "politics" and to be engaged in the process, says Tammy Gagne, author of the book series A Kid's Guide to the Voting Process (Mitchell Lane, 2012). "A child who understands the importance of the issues won't see a ballot as just another piece of paper."

Kirsetin Morello is a freelance writer, blogger and mom.