Sept. 17 was National Voter Registration Day, an annual civic holiday that started in 2012 and underscores the crucial role of being registered to vote in the United States. As the November election approaches, it's the perfect time to start conversations with your children about the power of voting, emphasizing that it is both a right and a responsibility. If you have children who will be 18 by Election Day, now is a perfect time to encourage them to register to vote and spark discussions about democracy, civic duty, the significance of voting, and having their voices heard. Here are a few ideas for turning this day into a family-oriented event that instills the value of civic participation in your children, regardless of their age.

Voting is a fundamental right that empowers citizens to shape their government and influence decisions affecting their daily lives. The history of voting rights in the United States is complex and marked by struggles for various groups, including women, people of color, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds. It was only in 1920 that the 19th Amendment granted women the right to vote, and the Equal Rights Amendment wasn't passed by Congress until 1972. The Civil Rights Movement and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 were pivotal in dismantling racial discrimination in voting, but challenges like voter suppression continue to this day. To help children understand the importance of voting, it's vital to discuss this history and the ongoing relevance of these struggles, highlighting how voting remains a powerful tool for change.