Voting

When I was doing the program on KSL today, one of the things I mentioned was that taking your kids with you to vote is one of the best things you can do to get them interested in politics and in the voting process.  I read an article about that in Parents magazine--how kids were really impacted by that one simple act. 

Now, obviously this doesn't really apply to kids who are super young.  No way am I dragging my three-year-old to the voting booth.  He would hate it, and I would hate it.  But older kids--now that could work, right?  I remember thinking it was so cool when our school was a polling place and you could see all the adults coming to vote.

I also remember the first time I could vote.  As it happened, the year I turned eighteen was an election year, and I felt so adult and competent as I walked in there and marked my ballot. (Now it's all computerized.  Which makes me hope the computers aren't plotting to take over the world.)  Anyway, I loved it.  I've voted in every presidential election since.  I like the almost festive atmosphere as you wait in line with other civic-minded souls.  It makes me feel like a good citizen.  It makes me feel lucky to live where and when I do.  

I do love voting.  I wonder if my five-year-old is old enough to bring along on November 4th?

(By the way, for those of you who asked, I was told that the clip would be made available at www.studio5.ksl.com in a day or so. ) :)