# 280 How to Raise a Citizen

Have you ever wondered how to have meaningful conversations with your teens about politics without the drama?Are you looking for practical ways to help your kids become informed and engaged citizens?

I have the perfect guest who can help us navigate through these tricky waters of politics.

Lindsey Cormack is an associate professor of Political Science and Director of the Diplomacy Lab at Stevens Institute of Technology in Hoboken, New Jersey. She earned her PhD in Government from New York University and is raising a daughter on the Upper East Side. She currently serves as the Secretary for Community Board 8 in Manhattan. She created and maintains the digital database of all official Congress-to-constituent e-newsletters in the DCInbox Project.

Her research has been published in multiple journals such as Political Behavior, Congress & the Presidency, Legislative Studies Quarterly, Political Science Research and Methods, American Politics Research, Politics & Policy, as well as in popular outlets including the New York Times, The Washington Post, The New York Post, NBC News, the The Hill, and more.

Lindsey Cormack's recently published, How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It's Up to You to Do It), speaks directly to an America in which civic knowledge is alarmingly sparse and many people dread politics. It's a tool for parents, educators, and anyone eager to fill this gap. In the book, Cormack offers an engaging and practical approach to discussing political issues and the inner workings of the U.S. government with children and teens.

 

Here are some Key Takeaways from this episode:

• Start early with political discussions to lay the foundation for informed and engaged citizens.
• Help your teens understand the structure and function of government to reduce political apathy and frustration.
• Encourage participation in local politics to foster a sense of community and practical understanding.
• Use real-life examples and interactions with local politicians to make politics relatable and accessible.
• Promote healthy political conversations to develop critical thinking and advocacy skills in your teens.

Empowering your teens with knowledge and tools for civic engagement not only helps them navigate the political landscape but also fosters a sense of responsibility and community involvement. By taking an active role in their civic education, you can help them become well-rounded and informed citizens.

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