With many Americans going to the polls in just one short week, there are a lot of questions that parents have, especially when it comes to whether or not their children can participate in the voting process. After all, it’s mom or dad that will be casting their vote, not their toddler tag along. And while most people will be hitting up the poll booths by November 6, there are a few things you should know before you decide to bring your kids with you.
These mid-term elections will be right in the middle of President Donald Trump’s first term. It’s safe to say that it will also be one of the most interesting elections in recent history, as all seats in the United States House of Representatives and 35 of the 100 seats in the United States Senate will be up for grabs.
But here’s the thing: can kids actually participate in the voting process with their parents? Well, it depends on where you live. Sure, many parents want their children to experience voting starting when they're young. After all, it’s a great way to teach them a little about the process and their future right to vote as well.
According to Romper, the good news is that children are allowed to join their parents at the polls in all 50 states as well as in Washington, D.C., but some states have certain rules about how many children are permitted, so it's a good idea to call your local election commission ahead of time if you're planning on bringing more than one or two children.
However, once your child is legal of age to vote, they cannot come into the voting booth with you. That means you can bring your kids if they are up to 17 years of age. At 18, they are no longer inside the voting booth.
At many polling areas, it’s very rare that someone would object to allowing your child go inside the voting booth with you. After all, it’s good for kids to see their parents voting. The best way to teach is by doing. With that being said, don’t forget to do your duty and vote… with your kids, of course!