“Mom, who are you going to vote for, Mom?
My eleven-year old, Matthew, has posed this question to me repeatedly in the past few months. Now, I suppose that I should be proud that my son has taken some sort of interest in politics, but I’m pretty sure it’s just related to bragging on the playground. At any rate, when I was growing up, my father’s answer to that same question (posed to “Dad”, of course), was “Why, are you taking a survey?” In other words, “It’s my vote. Butt out.” Being raised when I was (dark ages), it actually never occurred to me to push my father for more. And, sadly, my gut reaction to my son was the same. “I don’t really share who I vote for, honey.”
But being raised when he is (foolish-parenting era), my son feels free to push back at every opportunity. And I must admit, that after being pressed, I am seriously considering recanting my position. As I thought this through, it occurred to me telling my son who I plan to vote for, and – gasp – even discussing the pros and cons (as I see them) of each candidate, may be one of the best ways to engage my son in the world of politics. And isn’t that what we want – for our kids to engage, to learn, to understand what it means to have a vote? It’s taken me most of my life to figure out what I think about these issues – why not give him a head start? Now, don’t you wish you knew who I had in mind, too? -Kirsetin
PS (Yes, I know Romney is out of the race. You try finding a photo of Huckabee with the other three!)
I agree with the later part of your thoughts, Kirsetin. My parents never discussed their personal political beliefs with me when I was growing up, and as a result I really felt “out in left field” when I turned 18 and was ready to enter the world of voting. Now, I believe that you have to draw the line in what you explain & the extent of your detail. However, as a parent now, I take every opportunity to be open with my kids (provided they are mature enough to understand the response) when they approach me on certain topics – politics included. I’d rather they learn from me, than some other kids self explanation on the playground!
When I was younger I remember asking my dad who he was going to vote for, and at the time he said he wasn’t sure. So, I clearly remember him giving me the paper to read up on the candidates and then he would ask what I thought. I thought the reading was very boring, and didn’t understand a whole lot. I just think it was his way to get me to do the work. I usually would find out most of his political views when friends would come over and after a few drinks the discussions would start. Or should I say heated discussions. Ha! Ha!
Jen LaHaie
I never sensed hesitation from my parents, while growing up, when I asked whom they were voting for. I also felt my parents had a deep pride in the democratic process each time they voted, never missing a primary or school board election! It was also impressed upon me at a young age that once I turned 18, I was expected to immediately register to vote. And, I did just that.
With all that said, I suppose that may be why my nearly 13 year vocation, since college graduation, has had me working in GOP politics in various capacities…and loving every minute of it! (oh, and marrying a man who does the same)