Election ’08 Family Fun

Host Bee on Monday, October 6th, 2008

Tip of the Week – Celebrate Election ’08!

The 2008 Presidential Election has captured the attention of our country in an unprecedented way and with no matter which party prevails, a “first” will occur at the highest level of our government! This exceptional event is worthy of the attention of children and adults alike and I have some fun and engaging ideas for both “parties!” And don’t forget to take a look at my round up of election products that will definitely make you smile or be inspired! (see Fun 2008 Election Gifts!)

For Children: Learning About the Election Process!

It is never too soon to educate your children about the importance and privilege of our democratic vote. Taking your crew to the polls and talking to them about what you’re doing is a great start. I love what my town does to enhance kids’ visits to the voting booth! The town sponsors “Project Democracy,” a program with a separate voting area for kids where they can cast their own vote! Ballot issues depend upon grade level and usually include questions like preferences for the Field Day T-Shirt design or a new school motto! Consider this in your town! (Hopewell Valley Project Democracy)

Some Other Fun Election Resources

The Washington Post – provides daily information detailing exactly where the presidential candidates and their spouses are appearing on the campaign trail! This Campaign Tracker provides unique insight to the extent of the candidates’ travel and lets kids know that the men and women they see in the news might just be in their own back yard! (Washington Post Campaign Tracker)

Smart About the Presidents and Smart About the First Ladies - are two colorful and kid friendly books from Scholastic that are filled with fast fun facts along with more serious information, historical context, maps and a floor plan of the White House! Buy both for $11.98 (Smart About the Presidents , Smart About the First Ladies)

The Democracy Project by PBS Kids – is a super cute website that offers children the chance to apply for the presidency, enter a voting booth and learn how government affects their everyday lives! This site is colorful, easy to navigate and best of all, allows young visitors to create e-postcards that they can email to voting age family and friends, reminding them to vote on Tuesday, Novemeber 4th! (The Democracy Project)

For Adults – Toasting the Election Process!

Adults can enjoy the election buzz, too! One fabulous way to celebrate is to host a pre-election party! Good friends have added a festive mood to the upcoming election by inviting my husband and me to a “Rock the Vote” party on Saturday, November 1st! With a perfectly red, white and blue card, this cocktail party will be sure to bring together guests of both “parties!”

This event is a wonderful combination of bipartisan camaraderie and classic cocktail entertaining! Socializing with friends, along with the kind reminder that our votes will need to be cast soon, are great reasons to celebrate! And really, could the color scheme be any easier??