Visiting the lost-and-found — a Children’s Voter Guide

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Our youngest citizens are the force behind this special Voter Guide. Their experiences at story time on the colorful carpet are the source of this valuable information. Through political dysfunction and by default, children’s literature and its lessons have become central to this election season.

The Minnesota Star Tribune offered an extensive Voter Guide on the candidates (Sept. 20), but neglected to warn about the specter of disinformation hovering over free and fair elections. Detailed candidate descriptions, yes, but nothing to alert citizens to damage done by unfounded statements and beliefs. Children, as a last resort, are called on to restore ethics in government.

What will each of us hold as core beliefs and values on the way to the voting booth? The Children’s Voter Guide skips the identity of candidates. Instead, it conducts a review of the finest children’s literature to find answers. Since we will all share the responsibilities of the November election, we must all find our place on the carpet — to revisit and relearn essential early lessons.

On the road to adulthood, what may have been lost will be found — on the carpet. With brief introductions here, we can benefit from eight famous tales, and delight again in the colorful characters who come alive to teach lessons and values. Between now and Nov. 5, make time to engage with great children’s stories — to recharge the core values of our shared humanity. And on the carpet, if you can, make room for a daughter, a son or grandchild to magnify the experience and its meaning on Election Day.

• “Horton Hears a Who!” (Dr. Seuss): Lend a hand (or trunk) to those not as big and powerful as you.

• “The Boy Who Cried Wolf” (Aesop’s Fables): Liars will not be believed when they finally tell the truth.

• “The Ugly Duckling” (Hans Christian Andersen): There is beauty in everyone — an anti-bullying message.

• King Midas (from Greek mythology): Greed will not provide a rewarding future.

• “The Lorax” (Dr. Seuss): It’s up to each of us to care for the world around us.

• “Strega Nona” (Tomie dePaola): People will only trust you if you do what you promise.

• “The Three Little Pigs” (English fairy tale): Wisdom, hard work and dedication pay off.

• “The Emperor’s New Clothes” (Hans Christian Andersen): Be honest, and speak up for what is right (especially if someone is parading in their underwear).

Steve Watson, of Minneapolis, is a retired teacher and artist.