Schools in the UK will soon need to give more lessons on democracy, how voting

works, and how the country is run. This is because the voting age for the general

election is being lowered to 16. Many agree that young people need to be

ready to make informed decisions. At first, these lessons will be for children

aged 14 and over, but the plan is to begin teaching these issues from 11 years of age, so everyone has plenty of time to learn.

Things to talk about at home ...

 - Talk to someone older at home, and ask them to share their experiences of voting and their thoughts on the news that 16-year-olds will be able to vote.

 - Can you think of times when you have taken part in a vote? What was the outcome?

- Do you believe it’s important for young people to learn about voting and democracy? If so, what age do you think the lessons should start?