How much do you involve your kids in your politics?

As a new presidential election cycle gets underway, let's talk about how politics factors into your parenting. In the family I grew up in, which included some who served in elected office, I couldn't avoid becoming politically aware at a young age.

My parents involved me in their political lives actively, including me in their discussions of news and issues of the day. My father voraciously read the newspapers, and encouraged me to do the same. The hum of political talk shows was the soundtrack of my weekend mornings.

But as passionate as my parents were about their politics, they never suggested I jump on their campaign wagons. They were equally passionate that I learn to think for myself, become informed about the candidates and issues, develop my own views, and be able to defend them.

I think that came back to haunt my father in my teenaged years.

Although it will probably be equally as tough for me, I am following a similar path with my own kids.

At their young ages, we simply communicate the importance, and celebrate the privilege and excitement of having the right to vote. We take our kids with us when we visit the ballot box, where we the parents get excited about getting a sticker for a change, proudly wearing our "I Voted" stickers all day.