Brilliant Ink believes in the power of voice. Just as we encourage companies to embrace their employees’ voices when designing engagement programs, we encourage all citizens to exercise their voice and privilege to help create a better world. 

As a team, we’ve built a Voting Resource Center to surface credible and actionable articles and resources for our community. As individuals, we’re sending postcards and texts to swing state voters, volunteering at local voting events, and are planning to send Pizza to the Polls. And as parents, we’re teaching our children about their civic responsibility and privilege, because as Whitney Houston so beautifully said, “[We] believe that children are our future, teach them well and let them lead the way…”

If you too are eager to teach your kids how to use their voice and become a catalyst for change, take a gander at the books we’ve been reading to our little ones!

Citizen Baby: My Vote: (Ages 0 – 3)

Citizen Baby knows a thing or two about voting. It's important to meet the candidates (they love babies!) and to call voters. Plus, you get a sticker at the polls! Children and adults alike will enjoy learning about voting in this adorable, informative board book. 

V is for Voting: (Ages 3 – 6) 

An engaging introduction to the tenets of democracy, V Is for Voting is a playful, poetic, and powerful primer about the importance of voting and activism. 

Vote for Our Future: (Ages 4 – 7)

In this charming and powerful picture book about voting and elections, the students of Stanton Elementary School learn how we can find – and use – our voices for change. 

I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference: (Ages 4 – 8)

Using concrete, nonpartisan examples like class pets or favorite desserts, I Voted introduces the basic concepts of democracy in a way that's accessible and appropriate for the youngest readers. The book also includes simple explanations of the branches of the American government and information on how we elect local and state officials, making it a timely, vital resource for talking to kids about what's going on in the world around them. 

One Vote, Two Votes, I Vote, You Vote: (Ages 5 – 8)

The Cat and the Hat is at it again, this time with rhyming words of wisdom about elections. With colorful illustrations and rhyming text, this picture book focuses on the election process — whether you’re voting for a class pet, local sheriff, or president of the U.S. — and explains that elections provide a way for voters to have a say in local and national politics.

Lillian’s Right to Vote: (Ages 5 – 9)

A Celebration of the Voting Rights Act of 1965: Even at 100 years old, Lillian is determined to make it to the ballot box on Election Day. As she climbs a very steep hill to get to the voting booth, she reflects on all that African Americans like herself have endured in the fight for voting equality. This is a must-read for kids learning about civil rights and a reminder for readers of all ages to not take the right to vote for granted.

Rock the Vote: (Ages 12+)

Are your kids past the age of picture books? A great resource for youth is Rock the Vote. For 30 years, Rock the Vote has revolutionized the way they use pop culture, music, art, and technology to engage young people in politics and build collective power.

When it comes to elections, there’s no shortage of divisive debates to be had. But no matter your views and beliefs, there’s no denying that not voting is the best way to give up your voice. Let’s do our part as citizens and parents to make sure our youth understands the power they have to affect change. 

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