How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It’s Up to You to Do It) with Lindsey Cormack

Today’s topic is one that not many people are talking about, but it’s a big problem in our country. We are discussing the deficit in our children’s education about civics, government, and basic politics. As parents and educators, we have a huge responsibility to do better, and today’s guest is taking on the challenge. Join us to learn more!Lindsey Cormack is a professor of political science at Stevens Institute of Technology, a little-known but premier engineering school in Hoboken, NJ. Seeing extremely bright students every day who don’t understand the basics of our government prompted her to write How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It's Up to You to Do It). The guidebook is geared toward parents to help them produce good citizens who are active and knowledgeable participants in our government and politics. Show Highlights:Lindsey’s extensive research and writing processIdentifying the deficit and what can be done about itOur educational plan in civics and government is NOT working.The “We don’t talk about politics” attitude is not helping our children.Two ends of the spectrum about politics in the USIt’s not fair (or true) to say that all politics are bad.Kids need to see specific behaviors modeled, like collaboration through difference, information-seeking techniques, normalizing disagreement, and how to consider another perspective.The beauty of American democracy is based on collaboration and compromise, and our kids need to learn this.“Raise an athlete—not a fan.”Parents should be the agents of change.An overview of Lindsey’s bookKey takeaways from LindseyResources:Connect with Lindsey Cormack: Website and How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It's Up to You to Do It)Contact us on social media or through our website for more information on the IEP Learning Center: www.inclusiveeducationproject.org.Thank you for listening!Don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE to the show to receive every new episode delivered straight to your podcast player every Tuesday. If you enjoyed this episode and believe in our message, please help us get the word out about this podcast. Rate and Review this show on Apple Podcasts, Pandora, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. Your rating and review help other listeners find this show. Be sure to connect with us and reach out with any questions or concerns: Facebook, Instagram, X, IEP Website, and Email