Elections are a cornerstone of democracy, providing a vital opportunity for citizens to make their voices heard. For elementary students, understanding elections can foster a sense of civic responsibility and active participation in the democratic process. Reading books about elections is an excellent way to introduce young learners to the importance of voting, the roles of elected officials, and the history of suffrage in the United States. This blog post highlights 20 of the best books to read to elementary students on Election Day, providing engaging and educational content that makes the concept of elections accessible and interesting.
In the United States, elections hold significant importance as they determine the leaders who will shape the nation's policies and future. Teaching kids about elections from a young age helps them appreciate the power and responsibility that comes with voting. By reading about elections, children can learn about the democratic process, the value of each vote, and the impact of their participation. These lessons are crucial for developing informed, responsible citizens who understand their role in a democratic society.
Reading out loud to elementary students is an essential practice for enhancing literacy and comprehension skills. It allows children to hear fluent reading, expand their vocabulary, and engage with complex ideas in an accessible way. When teachers or parents read books about elections out loud, they not only introduce important civic concepts but also create opportunities for discussion and critical thinking. This interactive experience helps children connect with the material on a deeper level, fostering a love for reading and learning.
1. Duck for President by Doreen Cronin
"Duck for President" is a charming and humorous story about a duck who decides to run for office. The book offers a lighthearted introduction to the election process, making it perfect for young readers. As Duck campaigns for various positions, from farm leader to president, children learn about voting, campaigning, and the responsibilities of elected officials. The engaging illustrations and funny storyline make it an excellent read-aloud choice that keeps students entertained while educating them about elections.
Click here to buy a copy Duck for President by Doreen Cronin
2. Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio
In "Grace for President," a young girl named Grace decides to run for president of her school after learning that no women have been U.S. presidents. This inspiring story teaches children about the election process, the importance of perseverance, and the significance of diverse representation in leadership roles. Reading this book aloud helps spark discussions about gender equality and civic engagement, making it a valuable addition to any Election Day reading list.
Click here to buy a copy Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio
3. What’s the Big Deal About Elections by Ruby Shamir
Ruby Shamir's "What’s the Big Deal About Elections" provides a comprehensive and kid-friendly overview of the election process in the United States. The book covers everything from the history of voting to the roles of political parties and candidates. Its engaging narrative and informative content make it an excellent read-aloud option for elementary students, helping them understand why elections matter and how they can participate in democracy.
Click here to buy a copy What’s the Big Deal About Elections by Ruby Shamir
4. The Night Before Election Day by Natasha Wing
"The Night Before Election Day" is a delightful take on the classic "Night Before Christmas" poem, adapted to explain the excitement and importance of Election Day. The book follows a family as they prepare to vote, highlighting key aspects of the voting process. Its rhythmic text and relatable storyline make it a fun and educational read-aloud choice, helping children understand the significance of participating in elections.
Click here to buy a copy The Night Before Election Day by Natasha Wing
5. One Vote, Two Vote, I Vote, You Vote by Bonnie Worth
Part of the Cat in the Hat's Learning Library, "One Vote, Two Vote, I Vote, You Vote" uses rhyme and colorful illustrations to explain the election process to young readers. The Cat in the Hat and friends explore the history of voting, how elections work, and why every vote counts. This engaging and accessible book is perfect for reading aloud, providing a fun and informative way to teach children about the importance of voting.
Click here to buy a copy One Vote, Two Vote, I Vote, You Vote by Bonnie Worth
6. What Is a Presidential Election? by Douglas Yacka
Douglas Yacka's "What Is a Presidential Election?" offers a clear and concise explanation of the presidential election process. The book covers key topics such as primaries, general elections, and the Electoral College. Its straightforward language and informative content make it an excellent read-aloud choice for elementary students, helping them understand the complexities of presidential elections in an engaging way.
Click here to buy a copy What Is a Presidential Election? by Douglas Yacka
7. History Smashers: Women’s Right to Vote by Kate Messner
"History Smashers: Women’s Right to Vote" by Kate Messner delves into the history of the women's suffrage movement in the United States. This book provides a detailed account of the struggles and triumphs of the women who fought for the right to vote. Reading this book aloud can help students appreciate the hard-won progress in voting rights and understand the importance of equal participation in elections.
Click here to buy a copy History Smashers: Women’s Right to Vote by Kate Messner
8. ABC What an Informed Voter You’ll Be! By Modern Kid Press
"ABC What an Informed Voter You’ll Be!" is an educational and engaging book that introduces young readers to important election-related vocabulary. Each letter of the alphabet represents a key concept or term related to voting and elections. This book is perfect for reading aloud, as it helps children build their election vocabulary while learning about the democratic process in a fun and interactive way.
Click here to buy a copy ABC What an Informed Voter You’ll Be! By Modern Kid Press
9. I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference by Mark Shulman
"I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference" by Mark Shulman explains the significance of voting and how individual choices can impact the community. The book uses simple language and relatable examples to help young readers understand the power of their vote. Reading this book aloud encourages children to think about the importance of making informed decisions and participating in elections.
Click here to buy a copy I Voted: Making a Choice Makes a Difference by Mark Shulman
10. Elections and Voting for Kids! by Bond and Bexley
"Elections and Voting for Kids!" by Bond and Bexley provides a comprehensive introduction to the election process, including the roles of candidates, voters, and elected officials. The book's engaging illustrations and clear explanations make it an excellent read-aloud choice for elementary students. By exploring this book together, teachers and parents can help children understand the importance of voting and the impact of elections on their lives.
Click here to buy a copy Elections and Voting for Kids! by Bond and Bexley
11. The Kids’ Complete Guide to Elections by Nel Yomtov
Nel Yomtov's "The Kids’ Complete Guide to Elections" is an informative resource that covers all aspects of the election process. The book includes detailed explanations, fun facts, and engaging activities that help children understand how elections work. Reading this book aloud provides an interactive learning experience, encouraging students to ask questions and explore the topic of elections in depth.
Click here to buy a copy The Kids’ Complete Guide to Elections by Nel Yomtov
12. Vote! by Eileen Christelow
"Vote!" by Eileen Christelow is a lively and informative book that follows a fictional election in a town. The story explains the steps involved in running for office, campaigning, and voting. With its engaging illustrations and straightforward narrative, this book is perfect for reading aloud to elementary students. It helps children understand the election process and the importance of civic participation in a fun and accessible way.
Click here to buy a copy Vote! by Eileen Christelow
13. Election Day: Ready-to-Read by Margaret McNamara
"Election Day: Ready-to-Read" by Margaret McNamara is a beginner reader book that introduces young children to the concept of Election Day. The book's simple text and engaging illustrations make it an excellent choice for early readers. Reading this book aloud helps children understand the basics of voting and the excitement of participating in an election.
Click here to buy a copy Election Day: Ready-to-Read by Margaret McNamara
14. Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America by Deborah Diesen
"Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America" by Deborah Diesen explores the history of voting rights in the United States. The book highlights the struggles and victories of various groups in their fight for the right to vote. Reading this book aloud helps students understand the importance of equal voting rights and the ongoing efforts to ensure that every citizen's voice is heard.
Click here to buy a copy Equality’s Call: The Story of Voting Rights in America by Deborah Diesen
15. V is for Voting by Kate Farrell
"V is for Voting" by Kate Farrell uses the alphabet to introduce young readers to key concepts related to voting and elections. Each letter represents an important idea or term, making the book both educational and engaging. Reading this book aloud helps children build their election vocabulary and understand the democratic process in a fun and interactive way.
Click here to buy a copy V is for Voting by Kate Farrell
16. When You Grow Up to Vote by Eleanor Roosevelt
"When You Grow Up to Vote" by Eleanor Roosevelt provides a timeless introduction to the responsibilities of citizenship and the importance of voting. The book covers the basics of government and the election process, making it an excellent read-aloud choice for elementary students. Reading this book aloud encourages children to think about their future roles as informed and active citizens.
Click here to buy a copy When You Grow Up to Vote by Eleanor Roosevelt
17. The Electoral College: A Kid’s Guide by Cari Meister
"The Electoral College: A Kid’s Guide" by Cari Meister explains the complex concept of the Electoral College in a way that is accessible to young readers. The book uses clear language and engaging illustrations to help children understand how the Electoral College works and its role in presidential elections. Reading this book aloud provides an opportunity for discussion and deeper understanding of the election process.
Click here to buy a copy The Electoral College: A Kid’s Guide by Cari Meister
18. The Next President by Kate Messner
"The Next President" by Kate Messner explores the idea that the next president of the United States could be anyone, including the students reading the book. The story highlights the importance of leadership, civic engagement, and the possibilities open to future generations. Reading this book aloud inspires children to think about their potential impact on the world and the importance of participating in elections.
Click here to buy a copy The Next President by Kate Messner
19. My Teacher for President by Kay Winters
In "My Teacher for President" by Kay Winters, a young student imagines what it would be like if their teacher ran for president. The book uses humor and relatable scenarios to explain the qualities of a good leader and the responsibilities of the president. Reading this book aloud provides a fun and engaging way to introduce children to the concepts of leadership and elections.
Click here to buy a copy My Teacher for President by Kay Winters
20. We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States by David Catrow
"We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States" by David Catrow uses playful illustrations and simple language to explain the preamble of the U.S. Constitution. The book helps children understand the foundational principles of American democracy and the importance of participating in elections. Reading this book aloud provides a valuable opportunity to discuss the Constitution and the role of voting in maintaining democratic values.
Click here to buy a copy We the Kids: The Preamble to the Constitution of the United States by David Catrow
Teaching elementary students about elections through reading is a powerful way to foster a sense of civic responsibility and engagement. These 20 books offer engaging and educational content that makes the concept of elections accessible and interesting to young learners. By reading these books aloud, teachers and parents can create interactive and meaningful learning experiences that inspire children to participate in democracy. Don't forget to get messy and make lots of mistakes as you explore these wonderful books and teach your students about the importance of voting and elections.
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