Political Canvassing with a 2-Year-Old?

Updated on October 09, 2008
M.O. asks from Highland Park, NJ
6 answers

I am planning to take my 2-year-old son to Pennsylvania with me to do canvassing for the upcoming presidential election. When I first decided to do this, it seemed like a wonderful idea. I thought my son would be proud, later, to have participated in a historical election, and it would be good for his (improving, but still developing) social confidence. If nothing else, he'll love the act of ringing doorbells. More recently, though, I've been having some doubts. What about aggressive dogs? What if people are very rude? I'd love to hear if other moms think this is doable, and if so, if you have any tips.

Thanks!

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A.H.

answers from New York on

The only tip I have -- is know what your candidate stands for. My husband and I are well read.. and we ask these people that come to our door.. about different aspects.. and they have no clue?? I tell them -- you just lost our vote.. because if you are campaigning for someone.. at least know all that they are for and all that they are against. Don't just ring doorbells if you don't know a lot about this person.. dont' just say change.. My question would be how? and what type of change?? everyone that has called me on the phone or come to more door.. couldn't answer any questions. just to say that they are great candidates??? how can that be - if you don't know what they stand for. Good luck.. and know your candidate before you come over!!

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C.M.

answers from New York on

I'm not sure how much ground you are looking to cover, but I would think the two year old would get tired and bored with it quite quickly. You said it's partially for his social development... does he currently not enjoy being around a lot of strangers? If so this could be working as a shock therapy and backfire. But, the biggest concern to me is dragging him around door to door. Lots of people see a little one and will want to touch him and ogle over him... I can't imagine he will be enjoying it for very long

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A.G.

answers from New York on

Good for you!!! I was considering doing the same thing with my 14 1/2 month old boy but had the same concerns(i'm also newly pregnant so not feeling up to it). I truely feel like this is such an important election and felt completely useless after what happened in the last two elections. What area in PA are you canvasssing? Do you have a back up sitter in the area? My parents live in PA and i go there often, I would be more than happy to watch your little boy if he gets tired or something... I would feel like I was helping in some way too. My son is sweet and calm and gets along well with others. If you are interested in me helping out in this small way. Let me know. We could chat further, meet beforehand etc... I would also have to confirm we are voting for the same candidate. Let me know if you are interested. here's my email ____@____.com

-A.

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C.F.

answers from New York on

I'm a tad germaphobic, so exposing a 2 year-old to that many people would bother me a bit.

Also, I think he would get exhausted and bored really quickly. There may be novelty in the first doorbell or two, but I suspect it would wear off pretty quickly.

As far as him being proud of participating. I think that is a nice thought, but not likely something that he will think about for many, many years. :)

Then again, he may just love it. You know him best.

Smallavatar-fefd015f3e6a23a79637b7ec8e9ddaa6

H.G.

answers from New York on

I think it's a very cool idea! As long as it's ok to take a break when he's not feelin' it anymore, you know? And as long as you feel comfortable with the way people are treating you both throughout the experience.

I bet he'll enjoy this time with mama!

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A.A.

answers from New York on

Honestly, it's yet another heated election season. Your child may be exposed to some unkind terms and/or aggressive people. I probably wouldn't want to put my child in that situation.

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