For Take Your Child to Work Day, the Genesee County Clerk’s Office gave the children of our staff a fun, hands-on look at democracy when Elections Supervisor Ellen Yope administered a mock election. And after the ballots were cast, the results delivered a clear snapshot of what matters most to our youngest voters: great snacks, fun activities, more recess, and absolutely less homework.

The race for favorite cereal was a competitive one, but Cinnamon Toast Crunch came out on top with 36 votes, followed by Fruit Loops with 26 and Lucky Charms with 22.

When asked which school subject is most fun, nearly half of voters chose Gym, Art, Music, etc. with 41 votes, far ahead of Math, Science, Social Studies, and English/ELA.

In the hotly-contested race for best ice cream, Cookies & Cream claimed victory with 31 votes. Cookie Dough followed with 20, while Superman made a strong showing with 18. At the movies, popcorn (the incumbent) dominated with 40 votes, while candy came in second with 27.

The biggest policy statement from the day may have come on the issue of whether lunch and recess should be one hour longer. The youth vote was decisive: Yes won with 76 votes, or 87 percent. Related to lunch and recess is the issue of whether teachers should be able to assign homework. More than 65 percent of voters said absolutely not.

The mock election was a creative and memorable part of Take Your Child to Work Day, giving children a chance to participate, make their voices heard, and experience a little of the election process for themselves.

Huge thanks to Ellen Yope and the Clerk’s Office for helping make elections such a fun part of the day.