How to Make the Most out of Election Day 2017 in Your Homeschool

In the U.S., Election Day is the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This year, it falls on November 7th. Though it's not a big year for national elections, many states and localities are holding contests.

"All politics is local," as the saying goes. Though these elections may not be getting as much attention as last year's presidential race, it is still vital for your homeschool families to learn about them.

Here's how to make the most out of Election Day 2017 in your homeschool: 

1. Research the elections going on in your state or locality

The Website ballotpedia.org is a great source for learning what races are going on near you. Along with your children, spend some time exploring the site, look up sample ballots, and learn about the candidates. You can even view campaign advertisements for some races (we love campaign ads). 

2. Look up voter identification requirements

Before you go to the polls, be sure to know what you have to take with you. The National Conference of State Legislatures has great information. Explore this link with your children. 

3. Go to the polls

After you have done your research, go to the polls. There is no better way to instill good citizenship values than by taking your kids with you to vote. Voting is the most frequently exercised form of political participation, and it is up to parents to set a good example.  

4. Watch or read about the results

Make Election Night an event. Make patriotic food. Gather together and watch the results come in. You can watch via a news Website or a cable news channel. Alternatively, pick up a local newspaper the next day. The local newspaper is sure to have good stories about who won. Make that your Hot Chocolate and Current Events for the week. 

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