{Politics can be a touchy subject no matter where you go, but it's especially important to be careful what you say - and how you say it! - in a school setting. Sidestepping potentially 'hot' issues such as your personal political party affiliation and candidate selections, election season truly does offer a fabulous opportunity for discussing important concepts like patriotism, citizenship, as well as one of the many things that makes America great, the freedom to make our own choice!}

Election Themed Children's Literature and Preschool Lesson Plan — Photo Source: www.notimeforflashcards.com

To kick-off your Election Unit, it's always fun to incorporate some informative books/media into your group reading time. Picture books do a great job of taking tricky subjects - like our election process - and breaking them down into information chucks that are easy for young children to understand and internalize. If you need a few recommendations to jump-start your election reading list, here are a few great resources you ought to check out...

Popular Children's Picture Books

Allison over at No Time For Flash Cards recently compiled a list of 9 books about presidents and elections {as well as her thoughts about each!} including several of our favorites - Grace for President by Kelly DiPucchio and Duck for President by Doreen Cronin.
Vote for Me! by Ben Clanton. In this comical tale, both the donkey and the elephant want your vote and will do anything to get it, including brag, flatter, make silly promises and fling mud, but they are both in for a surprise when the votes are counted.
If I Ran For President by Catherine Stier. From campaigning and primaries to debates and election day, six characters explain what it takes to run for president!
My Teacher for President by Kay Winters. Highlighting the qualities that make a good president {and, as it turns out, a teacher too!}, young Oliver is convinced that his teacher would make a great candidate!
Today On Election Day by Catherine Stier. Entertaining and educational, readers are reminded that voting is an important responsibility!

Along with books, you might also check out these informative videos about elections and the US!

Schoolhouse Rock: Presidential Minute
Schoolhouse Rock: Rock the Vote!
44 Presidents Rap {It goes a bit fast, but it's fun!}
Animaniacs: The Presidents Song and Nickelodeon President Song {The Animaniacs song only goes to Clinton and the Nickelodeon tune only goes to George W. Bush, but they're fun and we included them just in case!}

We hope you have fun using these resources to teach your kiddos about the election process!

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