“I think they should start as soon as they learn to speak. My parents always talked to me about politics, and I can remember being interested in all of the elections I've seen in my life.”

— Crystal Poull, nanny, San Francisco

“As soon as they become aware of how much the government actually impacts their lives.”

— Jake McDaneld, senior mutual funds representative, Ottawa

“I would say as early as 5. That way they can learn how to make choices and weigh options. I think children should be given as many opportunities as possible to make decisions at a very young age.”

— Sherry Ford, server, Baldwin City

“Probably when they're old enough to understand the political process and how to make decisions based on what they believe. In the good old days it seems like that was junior high, but the world is getting younger.”

— Scott Smith, writer/producer, Lawrence