In this episode, Julie Silverbrook, chief content and learning officer at the National Constitution Center, speaks with John Holbein of the University of Virginia and co-author of Making Young Voters: Converting Civic Attitudes into Civic Action. His research examines a striking gap between young people’s intention to participate and their ability to follow through and cast a ballot. As families prepare for the midterm elections, John and Julie share practical advice for families with children of all ages, from introducing young kids to elections and making voting a family experience to helping first-time voters navigate registration paperwork, find their polling places, and prepare to cast their ballots. They also explore ways to celebrate voting milestones and continue family voting traditions with adult children. Together, they discuss how everyday conversations and shared experiences can deepen children’s understanding of our constitutional democracy and build the confidence and habits that support lifelong voting and civic participation.
Resources
John Holbein and D. Sunshine Hillygus, Making Young Voters: Converting Civic Attitudes into Civic Action, (2020)
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