It’s hard to remember an election that engaged the interest of so many citizens. Despite all the complaints (most of them valid) about negative campaigning, participation in Tuesday’s vote is expected to be huge. By late last week, nearly half the absentee ballots that were sent out in Snohomish County had been returned, and a total turnout of 85 percent of registered voters was expected.

This interest level bucks a disheartening trend. In 1972, nearly 63 percent of U.S. adults voted nationwide. In 2000, that figure was down to 51 percent. Much of this year’s surge in interest may be fueled by the Iraq war and the polarization it has caused, suggesting that voter participation could easily fall again.

One worthy effort to spark a lifelong commitment to voting is the “Take Your Kids To Vote” campaign, sponsored by the nonpartisan Council for Excellence in Government.

The campaign argues that parents have a tremendous impact on their children’s future voting habits. According to a 2002 council survey of 18- to 25-year-olds, 45 percent of those registered to vote said their parents took them to the polls when they were kids, and 58.7 percent of them said their parents talked to them about politics while they were growing up.

Campaign organizers are encouraging parents to take their kids to the polls on Tuesday. It’s something grandparents should consider, too. Those who vote by mail are encouraged to engage their kids in meaningful discussions and activities about the political campaigns.

Some suggestions from the “Take Your Kids To Vote” Web site (www.takeyourkidstovote.org):

* Find an issue that affects you and your kids directly – the environment or education, for example – then follow it during the campaign and discuss the candidates’ views.

* Take your kids for a stroll through the neighborhood and look for political advertising. How many different campaigns can they identify?

* Ask your kids about the messages candidates are communicating through the media. Are they negative? Positive? Which do they remember best and why?

* Encourage your kids to talk with grandparents and others about their voting histories. Who was the first person they voted for? Who were their favorite candidates?

The pervasiveness of political messages this year presents a wonderful opportunity to plant the seeds of democratic rights and responsibilities in young minds, seeds that may grow into a lifetime commitment. Parents should seize it.