Mixing kids and politics may seem like a strange notion to some.Many parents probably don’t talk to their kids about politics because they just don’t think they would be interested.But what if they do care and what if they were given a voice in the public arena?One company that specializes in children’s wear, If Kids Could Vote (IKCV) is taking this cause to the front lines.
Earlier this summer IKCV started a petition to “make 12 the new 18” by urging officials to lower the voting age.The company admits the campaign is mostly in jest, but makes a few good points just the same.It is true that most, if not all, decisions made in the political arena will directly impact our children’s futures.Getting kids more involved in politics when they are young might prove to be invaluable to them as they make decisions growing up.
From onesies to t-shirts, the humorous line of children’s wear IKCV puts out is sure to be a conversation starter for kids and their parents.One of their more popular t-shirts reads “I can’t vote?Please don’t blow it.” with an American flag imprint in the middle.
Another clothing line called Tutti Bella offers a line of political t-shirts for children as well. You can either get a shirt that reads "Lil Republican" or "Lil Democrat" in a tiny size for your child. These t-shirts come with the iconic elephant and donkey emblem in the center.
Former consultant for UNICEF and founder of If Kids Could Vote, Peter Cenedella, tells the story of how he started the unique kid’s clothing line, “I came home from work one day and my daughter said, ?Daddy, I want to cancel being an animal doctor and run for president!’ That’s when I realized kids and politics could mix in a really hopeful way.Most of all, kids don’t want to be cynical.They want to believe and be engaged, and let’s face it ? American politics could really use an infusion of that kind of youthful attitude.That’s why we started doing this.”
To sign the IKCV petition to “make 12 the new 18” or to check out their clothing line for kids you can visit www.IfKidsCouldVote.com . And to check out what Tutti Bella has to offer you can visit www.TuttiBella.com .
Have your children expressed any interest in politics yet?
Do you think they would enjoy expressing themselves with political wear, like the t-shirts offered at If Kids Could Vote or Tutti Bella?
i think it is great to get kids to be interested in the process but no, they shouldnt be able to vote at such a young age - it is too important a decision
jenndta::
on Aug 20, 2008
Some one sounds bitter. I personally think it's a great idea. The people that are being affected the most in this climate are our children. My child is interested in who becomes the next President. In fact, she had chosen a different candidate than we did durning the primaries. Children are more capable in making choices than they are given credit for. She should not be able to vote, however they do deserve an opinion! That's what makes this America.
danesmom::
on Aug 29, 2008
WOW..I cannot believe how personal some people take politics...and how these questions have prompted such heated and lenthy off topic answers...The questions again..
Have your children expressed any interest in politics yet? Not yet, but our neighbor who is 12 has nothing but the elections on his mind.
Do you think they would enjoy expressing themselves with political wear, like the t-shirts offered at If Kids Could Vote or Tutti Bella?
My son is not interested in any of these things yet, and if and when he is, I am going to allow him to make his own mind up about what he believes and hope that he can be passionate about his beliefs AND respect the judgements of others. There should never be just one side to a story. But shirts exactly LIKE or similiar to these will be welcome in our house, for either side.
I do think it would humorous to have an official vote for those in the 12-18 range having no impact on the official vote, but just to see what the minds of our future are holding.
