credit:anonfxDo you have a favorite candidate, someone who has you excited about this historic presidential election? Then why not practice a bit of creativity to let the world know your choice?

Hold a 'family forum' to discuss what you, as a family, want to do during the election season. Older children will have more of an active role than younger, but even they can find ways to contribute.

1. Start a scrapbook, or collection of pictures from the newspaper and magazines of your favorite candidate. It there is a family split in who is the favorite, then have two collections. That will add to the competitive nature of the campaign.
2. Make a banner for the window or front lawn. With poster board, markers or paint, you can support your candidate.
3. Take a family picture, holding up your candidate's name or his or her picture. Use it to make a handout, with a caption, something like: "Our family supports __________ for president!" If you wish to distribute them, use discretion in sending them to relatives or friends, or to your online address book.
4. Display the American flag every day until election.
5. Teach proper flag care, and have the children take turns putting it up, and taking it down at night.
6. Help the children make a poster. Ask a local business for permission to post it (or put it up in the kids' room.)
7. Get in the red, white, and blue spirit . . . for America, the beautiful . . . wear the colors on election days or when promoting candidates.
8. Teach children that they should not take it personally when others disagree with their choice, and that arguing about it is a bad idea. Explain the difference between a debate and a brawl.
9. Help them to understand that democracy is based on a right to disagree peacefully.
10. Keep it fun and educational.

With a salute to all the worthy candidates, and to you who support them,

The Schoolmarm