Public Speaking for Kids
The Best Curriculum, Clubs and Classes for Teaching Public Speaking, According to Parents
Public speaking is a critical skill that extends beyond the classroom or the debate stage. Public speaking boosts self-confidence, enhances the ability to persuade and influence others, improves communication skills, and encourages critical thinking. These skills are invaluable in all walks of life, be it during higher education, in the workplace, or during social interactions.
According to a study published in the Journal of Voice, approximately 63.9% of college students report experiencing fear of public speaking, with higher odds observed among females, students who have infrequent participation as speakers in groups, and those who perceive their voice as high-pitched or too soft.
So, whether it's a structured program, practicing in front of family and friends, or speaking at community events, helping children improve their public speaking abilities is a worthwhile investment. These skills not only assist in personal growth but also set up children for professional success in their future careers.
The following are the public speaking resources most recommended by families in our community, plus some tips on cultivating public speaking skills with or without a formal program.
1. Our Pick: 4H Public Presentations
4H is a tried-and-true youth development organization, and their public presentation program comes highly recommended by parents. Offering an experiential learning environment, this program allows students to explore topics of interest and present on them, developing not only their public speaking skills but also their research and organization abilities.
Many parents, including 4H leaders, have expressed that kids love this annual program, largely because it lets them choose a topic they are passionate about. The program also has broad reach; 4H clubs can be found in all 50 US states, US territories, and even military installations worldwide.
To get involved with 4H public presentations, contact a 4H club near you.
2. Upgrade Pick: Toastmasters Junior
Toastmasters is a well-known international organization focused on communication and leadership development. They offer a youth-oriented curriculum called the "Gavel Club" that's highly praised for its supportive and diverse environment.
While it's perhaps a bit more formal than other programs, Toastmasters provides a structured syllabus with a variety of assignments. Participants write and deliver short speeches on their chosen topics, and the feedback they receive is consistently described as constructive and encouraging.
The interpersonal kit for youth leadership programs costs $50 for members, and $100 for non-members.
3. Best Online Pick: Outschool Public Speaking Classes
For families seeking a flexible online option, Outschool Public Speaking Classes are a popular choice. Outschool offers a wide range of courses for different age groups and experience levels, making it easy to find a class that matches your child's needs and interests.
4. Best for Group Settings: Speakers League
Speakers League is a club-based program that stands out for its group-oriented approach. Kids work together in small groups, practicing their speaking skills in a supportive, low-stress environment. This program is particularly good for children who prefer collaborative learning.
5. Best Debate Focused: DebateAble Kids
If your child is more interested in the argumentative side of public speaking, DebateAble Kids is a great option. This program helps children learn how to structure arguments, speak confidently, and listen critically, all within a debate setting. The focus on debate also makes this a solid choice for kids who enjoy competition.
6. Best Value: 4H Find Your Voice Public Speaking
For parents seeking a budget-friendly option, 4H's Find Your Voice program is worth considering. Like the 4H Public Presentations, this program combines experiential learning with public speaking skills. However, the Find Your Voice program specifically focuses on helping students find their unique voice and style. Given 4H's broad accessibility and the enthusiasm for their other programs, this is a fantastic choice for cost-effective public speaking training. It’s $11.95 on the 4-H site.
All these resources have their unique strengths, so consider your child's needs and preferences when choosing a public speaking curriculum or class. Happy speaking!
Pro-tip: Start your own public speaking club
There’s no need to go through a formal public speaking program to improve your child’s public speaking skills. The most important elements are practice. Consider starting a club where kids have a chance to practice public speaking skills informally, or start talking publicly about topics they’re passionate about.
Special needs
For Shyness: Speakers League
Speakers League offers a group-oriented, low-stress approach to public speaking. This would be ideal for children who are shy or have social anxiety. Being part of a supportive group can lessen the pressure of public speaking and build confidence over time.
For Learners Needing Structure: Toastmasters Junior
For students who benefit from a more structured learning environment, such as those with ADHD or who are on the autism spectrum, Toastmasters Junior could be a good fit. It offers a structured syllabus with specific assignments and consistent feedback, providing a clear path to progression.
For Auditory Processing or Language Difficulties: 4H Public Presentations
The 4H Public Presentations program, where students research and present on a topic of their choice, could benefit students with auditory processing disorders or language difficulties. By allowing children to select a topic they're passionate about, the program provides an environment where they can focus more on the content than how they appear to others.
For Online Learners or Those with Physical Disabilities: Outschool Public Speaking Classes
Outschool's online public speaking classes are flexible and accessible from home, making them a great choice for students with physical disabilities or those who thrive in remote learning environments.
Remember, the effectiveness of each tool can vary widely depending on the individual child's needs, so it's always best to trust your intuition and try things out.
Also consider enrolling your kids in acting classes, or simply starting a club where kids can practice public speaking in a low pressure environment.
Other Approaches to Improve Public Speaking Skills
In addition to specific public speaking programs, parents also emphasized the value of various non-program-specific approaches to help children bolster their public speaking skills. Here's a look at some of these practical strategies:
Self-Selected Topics: Children are often more engaged and passionate when they talk about something they love or are interested in. Allowing kids to choose their topics can help alleviate some of the intimidation that can come with public speaking, making the process more enjoyable and relatable.
Regular Practice: The age-old adage of 'practice makes perfect' holds true in public speaking. Regular practice, be it during family discussions, school presentations, or even rehearsing in front of a mirror, can foster familiarity and help manage the fear of speaking in public.
Group Settings: Opportunities to practice speaking in group settings, such as school clubs or community gatherings, can be invaluable. The supportive feedback and the experience of addressing an audience can help children get used to expressing their ideas confidently in front of others.
Event Participation: Encouraging children to participate in structured public speaking events such as debates, TEDx-style talks, or theater performances can provide real-life practice and help them understand the dynamics of public speaking in various contexts.
Role-Playing: This method can help children understand how to present and respond in different scenarios, providing a safe space to experiment with tone, body language, and content.
Fostering a Supportive Environment: Creating a non-judgmental and encouraging space for children to practice their public speaking can help boost their confidence and reduce the fear of making mistakes.
Leveraging Technology: Tools like video conferencing can be used to adapt to modern contexts, allowing children to practice their skills in diverse platforms and situations.
Remember, these skills take time to develop, and the most important factor is that the child feels comfortable and confident in expressing their ideas. While specific programs can provide structured learning and improvement, these additional strategies can supplement that growth in a way that's adaptable to each child's unique needs and interests.
Sources
Marinho, A.C.F., de Medeiros, A.M., Gama, A.C.C., & Teixeira, L.C. (2017). Fear of Public Speaking: Perception of College Students and Correlates. Journal of Voice, 31(1), 127.e7-127.e11. ISSN 0892-1997. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jvoice.2015.12.012.