Regardless of who wins, this year’s presidential election is going to go down in history.  In addition to the presidential election, many states will be electing new representatives and senators. What better time to engage your family in a discussion about our political system and teach your children the importance of being a part of the election process.  By making election time “fun” for your young ones, you’ll instill a sense of patriotism and activism early on.

Since it may be a late night, plan ahead to make this a special evening for your family, after school or late afternoon naps for the youngest ones will make it easier on everyone the next day.

You can also add a lesson about being environmentally friendly by reusing  your 4th of July and Memorial Day décor like flags, bunting, sparklers and anything red, white and blue.  Have the kids check their  rooms for stuffed donkeys and elephants.

Get into the spirit of the evening by serving food and drink representative of each candidate.  Be sure to use this opportunity to teach your kids a little bit about the candidates and the diversity of our nation:

Chicken fingers:  Joe Biden is a Senator from Delaware. Delawareans love their chicken and the state is famous for its poultry. So, in honor of Biden, serve some chicken fingers

Fish Sticks:  Sarah Palin is the Governor of Alaska where fishing is a major industry.  Serve fish sticks in honor of Governor Palin.

Deep Dish Pizza:  Since Barack Obama is a Senator from Illinois serve a classic Chicago-style  deep-dish pizza.

Southwestern Food:  John McCain is a Senator from Arizona. Pay tribute to this veteran politician from Arizona by offering Southwestern style cuisine like fajitas or chili rellenos (or stuffed green peppers)

Make an game out of each state’s decision. Buy Jelly Bellies or M&M’s in red and blue and let everyone have one of the color for each state’s winner.

You may want to have sleeping bags and pillows so the littlest ones can fall asleep while the final results are coming in.

With just a little imagination, you can make election night a fun learning experience for your family.  How PERFECT is that?

Kathy Strukel is the owner of The Perfect Solutions, LLC, a private and corporate event planning business in northern Indiana.  Kathy works with brides, families and businesses s to create events that are PERFECT in every way.  When she’s not blogging or planning a party, Kathy loves to spoil her four grandkids and her Maltipoo, Sophie.