A parent's voting ritual

Every election, the author brings her children, now eleven and nine years old, to the polls. They understand something important is happening and ask plenty of questions about the process.

Nearly thirty years teaching democracy

The author has spent nearly thirty years at the League of Women Voters, helping people understand how to shape democracy, participate in elections, and make their voices heard. Becoming a parent made this work feel more personal.

Democratic decisions shape children's lives

Though her children cannot vote yet, elected leaders' decisions already affect nearly every part of their lives. Those choices determine school funding, parks, playgrounds, pools, libraries, bike lane safety, and opportunities available to all children tomorrow.

Seeing democracy in action

The author brings her children to polling places, rallies, and community meetings so they see democracy as something people do, not just something learned in school. They watch neighbors participate and see voting as a normal part of community membership.

Democracy offers many ways to participate

Voting matters, but democracy gives people many ways to use their voices. They can learn about issues, ask questions, contact elected officials, speak at school board or city council meetings, and organize with others who care about the same things.

Modeling, not telling, how to think

The author does not tell her children what to think or whom to vote for someday. Instead, she models participation and wants them to grow into people who ask questions, seek reliable information, listen to others, and reach their own conclusions.

“I want them to grow into people who ask questions, seek out reliable information, listen to others, and reach their own conclusions.”

Ready to use their voices

When her children exchange their future voter stickers for I voted stickers, the author hopes the experience feels familiar and that they understand the power of their voice. They can learn, participate, speak up, and eventually vote for the world they want.