Voting and elections are foreign concepts for children. However, they are important topics to understand.
Kids will start noticing election-related materials. This includes political campaigns and news stories about voting. They could also hear discussions about who should be voted.
Explaining how voting works can be tricky. It is also difficult to explain why elections are important. Thankfully, there are books that break down the concept of elections for kids. These books use simple language and colorful illustrations. They also use engaging stories to make learning about voting fun.
Here are five excellent books to help explain voting and elections to children.
Leo's First Vote
Author: Christina Soontornvat
Illustrator: Isabel Roxas
In the book, Leo's father will cast his first vote as an American citizen. Leo is also set to vote in his class' mock election. The book discusses how every vote counts. It also uses vocabulary like polling place and voter registration.
Grace for President
Author: Kelly DiPucchio
Illustrator: LeUyen Pham
"Grace For President" is about becoming the first female president. A little girl runs as a candidate in a classroom mock presidential race. Each student is assigned a state and electoral votes. The book has patriotic themes perfect for kids aged 3 to 8.
Read more: 7 Easy Ways To Turn Kids Into Avid Readers
Thank You for Voting
Author: Erin Geiger Smith
This book is perfect for children aged 8 to 12. "Thank You for Voting" is broken into three parts. First, it goes over the history of voting in the country. Second, it discusses the process of election and voting. Lastly, it offers tips for encouraging other people to vote.
"Thank You for Voting" covers important topics such as the Voting Rights Act and women's suffrage.
The President of the Jungle
Authors: André Rodrigues, Larissa Ribeiro, Paula Desgualdo, and Pedro Markun
This children's book differentiates monarchy and democracy. A vote is called when the lion diverts the river to make a personal pool. The book shows how election rules are established. It also sees animals making their case for the presidency.
The Day Madear Voted
Author: Wade Hudson
Illustrator: Don Tate
"The Day Madear Voted" celebrates the voting rights of Black Americans. In the book, Madear is going to vote for the first time. She recalls the years when Black Americans were subjected to unjust laws. It also covers voter suppression in the 1900s.
The book ends in 2008 when the first Black president is elected.
