I recently overheard some high school boys talking about politics. Not one of the teens present was old enough to vote, but each had a firm, well-educated opinion about who should be the next President.

In the year of this all-important Presidential election, we parents have an opportunity — and a responsibility — to teach our children about the election process.

Donkeys and elephants
Even young children can learn about the party system — that McCain is a Republican, and Obama is a Democrat. Parents, you can set the tone of these early lessons — do you wish to make a political statement to your child, or will you remain neutral on issues for the purpose of educating your child about the process?

The media
Information from newspapers, magazines, TV news and the Internet can be shared with children of any age. Help toddlers identify candidates by their photos. Watch conventions and debates with older children. Discuss current events and important issues at the dinner table.

Be worldly
Help kids understand that electing a new President has an impact on the entire world, not just one small community. If you’re unable to travel with your kids, expose them to different cultures and environments through books, educational TV and the Internet.

Have a cause
Bring up important issues with your kids to see what sparks their interest. Many children become interested in politics when a meaningful cause motivates them to do so. Whether they want to save the forests or sponsor a child from a war-torn country, children can begin to understand how our election process contributes to things that are important to them.

Vote!
Some schools conduct mock Presidential elections — students can campaign for their candidate and school-wide results are shared with everyone. If your child is too young to understand this, you can facilitate home elections on lighter topics — such as whether chicken nuggets or mac & cheese is the better food. When it’s your turn to vote in November, bring your kids with you and lead by example.

Tally the results
Keep your children involved through the end of the process — encourage them to check out the newspapers or the Internet to see election results.

Your vote matters! Read Lifetime launches Every Woman Counts bus tour.
Tell us: Who’s your pick for the next president?