The American democracy and very fabric of our way of life is built on the right to vote. Our founders understood that a fair and just government is made by the people, where individuals can elect governing leaders that represent their beliefs.
The colonists and countless Americans have fought and died for our right to vote, which is why it is critical to teach kids about honor, good values and civic engagement from a young age to set the foundation for their future roles as active participants and voters in our society.
After reflecting on the meaning of honor myself, I was determined to produce an educational and entertaining book to enrich children’s understanding early, allowing them to recognize and appreciate values, and to act honorably.
Here are five tips to help parents and educators raise future voters by instilling good values.
1. Start Early with Picture Books
Picture books, both instructional and narrative, are fantastic ways to introduce young children to complex ideas in a simple and engaging manner. According to a June 2024 study by The Journal of Research in Reading, children exposed to a variety of instructional and narrative picture books develop vocabulary that will serve them later in their academic careers. This study found that books that focus on themes of honor, fairness and community can help children understand these values early.
2. Model Good Citizenship
Children learn a great deal by observing the adults around them. Demonstrating good citizenship through voting, volunteering and participating in community events can leave a lasting impression. According to a Psychology Today article, parents and educators influence how kids view citizenship and how they eventually turn ideas and passion into action.
3. Discuss Current Events
Engaging children in discussions about current events can help them understand the world around them and the importance of staying informed. Use age-appropriate news sources and encourage your children to ask questions and express their opinions. This practice builds critical thinking skills and fosters a sense of responsibility and engagement. According to the National Council for the Social Studies, “the opportunity to improve tomorrow is present with each teaching day. It is of utmost importance for us to teach our children, even our youngest children, the basics of civic life.”
4. Teach the Value of Honor and Integrity
Honor and integrity are core values that underpin responsible citizenship. Teach children the importance of honesty, keeping promises and standing up for what is right by role-playing scenarios and discussing moral dilemmas. The Josephson Institute of Ethics maintains that young people who are taught about core values in school report that these lessons positively influence their behavior.
5. Encourage Participation in School and Community Activities
Encouraging children to participate in school and community activities can help them develop a sense of belonging and responsibility. Whether it’s joining a student council, participating in a community clean-up or volunteering at a local charity, these experiences teach children the value of contributing to their community. Youth.gov reports that 44 percent of adults who volunteer began volunteering while young.
Raising future voters who are informed, responsible and value honor and integrity is a vital task for parents and educators. By starting early with picture books, modeling good citizenship, discussing current events, teaching the value of honor and encouraging participation in community activities, we can help shape the next generation of engaged and motivated citizens. These efforts can have a lasting impact on children’s development and their future roles in our democracy, providing a sense of reassurance and confidence in the future.
About the Author
Sheri Wall is a children’s book author. Her latest work, Ethan’s Word of Honor, is available for pre-order. An empty nester in Central Texas who enjoys being creative, staying active, finding bargains and playing with her first grandson, Sheri has written over a dozen books, including I Am Thankful: A Story About Gratitude and Family, Our Pledge, Our Promise: The Pledge of Allegiance Explained, The Silly Milly the Dane Collection. Learn more about Sheri and her work at A Matter of Rhyme.
