In this episode, we explore how families can cultivate civic hope, optimism, and resilience at a moment when many parents and children are navigating narratives of distrust, division, and social isolation. Ashley Berner, director of the Johns Hopkins University's Institute for Education Policy and an associate professor of education, joins Julie Silverbrook, Lindsey Cormack, and Sarah Vacchiano to discuss how resilience, hope, and optimism begin in the everyday moments of family life — learning frustration tolerance through a difficult puzzle, negotiating responsibilities at home, caring for shared spaces, and practicing how to disagree respectfully while remaining connected to one another.
Throughout the conversation, we examine how these small relational experiences help children build the psychological and civic muscles necessary for life in a constitutional democracy. We talk about the importance of teaching children that democracy is not built on unanimity, but on learning how to live, work, and solve problems together despite our differences. Together, we reflect on how families, schools, libraries, museums, and local civic institutions can work together to nurture the next generation of engaged citizens and strengthen the habits of self-government that sustain constitutional democracy.
Resources
National Constitution Center, Family Learning Resources
National Constitution Center, Civic Quest, a new play-based family learning experience
National Constitution Center, NCC Trivial Pursuit: Exploring America’s Story (Bitesize)
Julie Silverbrook, “At 250, America Needs Civic Parenting, Not Just Civics Classes,” The Fulcrum (May 5, 2026)
Rick Hess, “What Is Civic Hope? And Why Should Schools Care About It?,” Education Week (March 17, 2026)
Lindsey Cormack, How to Raise a Citizen (And Why It's up to You to Do It) (2024)
Sarah Vacchiano, Civic EQ
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