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Embarking on our first worldschool hub experience with my three daughters, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect. As we arrived in Washington, D.C., I was struck by the city’s grandeur, its aura of power and history. Over the next few days, we delved into the heart of America’s capital, exploring its iconic landmarks and world-renowned museums. This journey was not just about discovering a new place—it became a profound reflection on empires, power, and the stories nations choose to tell.

Our adventure began with visits to the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the surrounding National Mall. These structures are awe-inspiring not only for their size and beauty but also for the ideals they represent—freedom, unity, and resilience. My daughters were fascinated by the stories we uncovered, asking questions that reminded me of the importance of learning history through experience rather than just textbooks.

One stop we had anticipated was the White House, but as Canadians, we discovered we couldn’t go on a tour anymore. This small disappointment, however, became an opportunity for reflection. Standing outside the gates, I thought about how this iconic building represents the pinnacle of American power—a power that has shaped much of the world over the last century. I couldn’t help but draw comparisons to Rome in its glory days. Like Rome, America has wielded immense influence, and standing here, I felt the echoes of history repeating itself.

The museums were another highlight of our trip. The Smithsonian’s vast collections are nothing short of extraordinary. From ancient artifacts to cutting-edge exhibits, it was clear that this was more than just a celebration of culture and history—it was a display of power. As I wandered through halls filled with treasures from around the world, I was reminded that every great empire, in its time, has done this: gathered the spoils of its conquests to showcase its dominance and reach. The United States is no different, using these institutions to assert its place as a global superpower.

For my daughters, these museums were a window into a world far bigger than their own. They saw how history, art, and science intersect and how nations craft narratives to define themselves. I was grateful for the opportunity to watch them engage with these lessons and to discuss them with a group of like-minded worldschoolers. Conversations flowed about power dynamics, history’s victors, and what it means to be part of a global community.

Being in Washington, D.C., also made me think deeply about privilege—mine, my daughters’, and that of the country we were visiting. The ability to stand in the capital of one of the most powerful nations in the world, to witness its grandeur and its carefully curated stories, was not lost on me. It’s a reminder of how much the world has been shaped by a handful of powerful entities over time, and how those stories impact all of us.

As we wrap up our days here, I feel immense gratitude for the experience. This journey has taught me as much as it has taught my daughters—about history, about empires, and about the narratives we pass on to future generations. It’s a humbling reminder of how interconnected we are and how vital it is to keep exploring, learning, and questioning the world around us.

Our first worldschool hub experience has been more than I could have hoped for. It’s not just about the places we visit but the conversations, reflections, and connections we make along the way. I look forward to continuing this journey with my girls, knowing that each stop will bring new lessons and deeper understanding. Washington, D.C., has set a high bar, and I can’t wait to see where this worldschooling adventure takes us next.