An Age-by-Age Guide to Talking About Voting With Kids

Voting can be a challenging topic to discuss with kids, but as the election approaches, it’s not something you should avoid. That's partly because voting is an important civic duty; it allows communities to make collective decisions about elected officials and prominent issues. Plus, talking about voting prepares kids to cast their own ballots once they turn 18 years old.

“Talking to kids about voting is part of preparing them for good citizenship and healthy adulthood,” says Keith Gaddie, PhD, Hoffman Chair of the American Ideal and political science professor at Texas Christian University. “It's both a right and a responsibility, and it's part of building a healthy relationship with their community.”

Not sure how to start the conversation? We put together an age-by-age guide on talking to kids about voting, including what you should—and shouldn’t—discuss at each age.

Stick to the Basics With Preschoolers and Kindergarteners

Preschoolers and kindergarteners might learn the basics about voting in school, but you can reinforce the lessons at home. “With preschoolers, like my 4-year-old Hannah, it’s all about making voting fun and relatable,” says Sophia Fifner, a civic engagement leader and adjunct professor who teaches nonprofit organizing and social justice at The Ohio State University. 

At this age, the main goal is emphasizing the purpose of voting: weighing in on topics according to your ideals, which helps officials make fair decisions on policies affecting a larger community. Young kids should learn there's no “correct” way to vote, and it’s the freedom of all Americans to choose how they want to cast their ballot.

Consider reinforcing the concept of voting with a fun family game. For example, Gaddie recommends giving kids a red item for “no” and a green item for “yes.” Then, ask them questions (“Are cats better than dogs?” or "Do you like olives?") and have them hold up the corresponding object—red for no and green for yes. They can also guess why someone might vote differently.

School-Aged Kids Often Have Questions

Once kids reach elementary school, they might have more questions about the voting process, so continue to support what they’re learning. “Children who understand how and why voting matters are more likely to become more civically engaged adults," says Eleni Mantas-Kourounis, PhD, an assistant professor of political science and global affairs at Sacred Heart University.

To increase engagement, tie voting into your child's life. Talk about how elections can impact their school district or the local park, for example. “If they see that voting directly impacts their world, they’ll understand that their opinions count,” says Fifner. "Voting isn’t just about picking leaders—it’s about teaching [kids] that their voice matters and that they can help create change.”

You can also read books like Grace for President or Vote for Our Future! to make elections feel real and exciting for kids. Take the opportunity to discuss fairness, leadership, and how decisions are made.

Middle Schoolers Can Understand the Complexities of Voting

Middle schoolers may hear about voting from school and social media. For this reason, parents should teach critical thinking skills so they can learn to separate fact from fiction. Kids this age can also understand the nuances of how voting works, so you can introduce these concepts to them—or discuss them in more detail if they’ve already studied them in school. 

“Middle schoolers are smart, and they're probably already aware of the political conversations happening around them,” says Fifner. “Therefore, I recommend introducing topics like the electoral college or voting rights, and asking them to think critically about how these systems affect people.” 

To sharpen critical thinking skills, Fifner also recommends having respectful debates on non-political topics like pineapple on pizza or ketchup on hot dogs. “It’s about making them comfortable with questioning information and learning how to form their own opinions.”

Also, let kids know that they can disagree with the voting preferences of their friends and family members, but they should do so in a polite manner. Learning to respectfully express their opinions may inspire kids to take action and contribute to their communities as they grow older. 

High Schoolers Should Form Their Own Opinions

During high school, kids start forming their own opinions on issues and candidates. They may ask you questions, and if they do, answer them truthfully. Teens can also be introduced to more complex voting issues.

High schoolers are almost ready to vote themselves, so now’s the time to make it real. “I recommend showing them how you research candidates and issues, and involve them in discussions about how voting impacts your community," suggests Fifner. "If they’re old enough, help them register to vote and celebrate this milestone.”

It’s fine to share your personal take on voting matters, but let kids know they’re free to disagree with you. Consider including high schoolers in your voting process, such as discussing why you chose a particular candidate or researching together, says Gaddie. You can even ask them to help you choose; this can be an opportunity to learn what they value and turn those values into votes.