Raising a First-Time Voter? 9 Tips for Parents

Parents, your 18-year-old is getting to vote in their first presidential election

This is a major milestone for them. Talking about politics with your children is a great way to boost their critical thinking skills, teach them to appreciate different viewpoints, and help them figure out their own values. Plus, it gives them a chance to learn how to engage in respectful and meaningful conversations, even with people who think differently than they do.

But before they hit the polls, here are nine tips to help them make an informed decision and stay involved on what matters to them.

1. Make sure they’re registered to vote. It’s not too late!

Make sure your teen is registered to vote. They can usually do it online, at their local library, or at their Town or City Hall.

Important checklist:
>To register online, go here
>Preparing to vote before 18? Learn more
>In college and unsure how to register? Learn more

2. Get to know the candidates

It’s important to encourage your child to read about the people running for office and their ideas. Look for their campaign websites or articles about them. By following candidates on social media or signing up for their email lists, you can receive updates on candidates’ campaigns, endorsements, and policy positions.

3. Learn about the issues at play

Ask what they think is important for the community and the nation at large. Maybe it's schools, the environment, or the economy. Help them learn about current issues and then find out where the candidates stand on those issues.

>Read about issues that Connecticut legislators are currently debating: Major issues facing Connecticut

4. Talk about what matters

Have conversations with your teen about what they care about and why they think it's important. It's like a brainstorming session for your community!

5. Check the facts

Not everything spreading in the media is true. Work with them to make sure the information they’re seeking comes from reliable sources, like newspapers, government websites or well-known organizations. Better yet, ask them what they’ve learned from the sources they’ve seen, but without judgment.

>Related: Navigating life with children in a digital world

6. Be open to different opinions

Just like we have different favorite books or musical tastes, people can have different opinions about candidates. That is why we are a democracy. It's okay to disagree, but be respectful of each other's views. A little civil debate is a good learning experience.

7. Think about the future

Voting is not just about today, it's about shaping tomorrow. How do you want your community to be in five years? What kind of leader will help make that happen?

8. Make a plan to vote!

Just like going to a movie, you need to know where to go! Help your teen decide how they will vote—Early Voting? Absentee? On Election Day? Find out the location of your teen's polling place and plan out the trip. Make sure your teen has a valid ID with them when they go to vote.

Help your voter-to-be make a plan:

>Find their polling place in CT: Go here
>Need to vote absentee? Learn more
>Want to make use of Connecticut’s new Early Voting law? Learn more
>Voting in another state? What to know

Talk to them about planning out their trip:
What else will they be doing on Election Day and when would work best for them to go to their polling location?

9. Encourage communication to elected officials

Teens can make their opinions known by reaching out to their elected officials through letters or calls. They can share their thoughts with their representatives about issues that are important to young people today or provide input on new laws.

>> Learn who your elected officials are

By following these tips, your teen can become a voting expert and make their voice heard. Remember, every vote counts!