by Katie Julius
Through those time-change-bleary eyes, you glance at the calendar and realize that today is Election Day. Where did October go? Like me, you probably had some grand plans about a month ago to create a great unit study as the United States elects our next president. But now that the day is here and those plans never came to fruition, you may be thinking, “Hmmm, what can I pull together while we are eating breakfast or the kids are doing their morning chores?”
Never fear! We have gathered some ideas that can be implemented today with very little or no prep, so you can still walk your kids through this historic day. We’ve grouped the ideas, roughly, by age, though many of the younger activities would still work for older kids as well, especially if you have a wide range of ages.
For the Littles (Early Elementary)
- Host your own family vote for a sweet treat, what to eat for dinner, or a movie to watch.
- Print a map of the US and color each state red or blue, according to the candidate who won that state.
- Talk about the role of the President of the United States and what qualities you should look for in a leader.
- If you haven’t voted or dropped off your ballot yet, take your kids with you. Often they will give the kids an “I Voted” sticker as you leave.
- Pray for the country and its leaders, for wisdom as citizens vote, and for unity no matter the outcome.
For the Middles (Upper Elementary)
- Explain the Electoral College and have your students not only color in each state according to who won, but add up the Electoral Votes, noting when one reaches the required 270.
- Observe at your local Ballot Processing Center. Be sure to call ahead to find out hours that it is open to the public and if there are any age restrictions for those coming to observe. Review the policies of observing and be respectful of the process. (Note: This is something that is goes on past Election Day if you can’t fit it in that day)
- Pray Psalm 146 together. It can help alleviate fears as it reminds us to trust in God and not man.
For the Teens (Middle School & High School)
- Discuss the Electoral College and whether or not it was wise for the Founding Fathers to utilize this type of electoral system versus a popular vote.
- Look up the propositions for your state (and any local measures). Find out what a “yes” or “no” vote actually means and the impact if it does pass.
- Watch some of the political ads on TV or look them up online. Talk about the different ways candidates try to gain your vote.
- Using their websites, research where each candidate stands on the issues and what they plan to do if elected. Do you agree with everything one candidate stands for? Have a conversation about voting for the best candidate, not necessarily a perfect one.
Looking for some resources?
CHEA members have access to A Guide to U.S. Civics. This free PDF download includes links to websites, online videos, movies, and books for all ages on a variety of topics for studying civics, including parties and politics, the election process, voting, and more.