| NATIONAL EXPOSURE FOR DEBATEABLE! DebateAble is making a difference in the lives of Seattle kids and young debaters across the country. Check out our recent interview with a national online publication where we disclose some of the many, proven benefits that debate brings to children.
September 2016
 "According to most studies, people's number one fear is public speaking. Number two is death. Death is number two. Does that sound right? This means to the average person, if you go to a funeral, you're better off in the casket than doing the eulogy." -Jerry Seinfeld
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"What are you most afraid of?"
The Book of Lists, published in 1977, cited
a survey of more than 2,500 Americans who were asked to name their top fear, and the number one response-- in front of heights, finances, and even death -- was public speaking.
Although that poll is over 40 years old, subsequent surveys over the years continue to show that fear of public speaking, also known as glossophobia, remains at or near the top of our list of greatest fears, occasionally second only to
snakes.
At DebateAble, we're convinced that increased confidence in public speaking, more than almost any other skill that debate teaches, provides the biggest pay off to young debaters. When kids learn how to use their voices and their bodies to convey their thoughts, with self-assurance in their own, unique style, the results are absolutely life changing. Children's growth in courage and confidence through public speaking opens multiple pathways, and seeps into every other aspect of their lives.
So... how do we address what can sometimes be a debilitating fear?
First, and foremost: practice.
And then, breathe.
And then, practice some more.
And all the while, remember that every single one of us starts in a different place, a
nd we each develop our own, unique voice, at our own, unique pace.
Most importantly, we always, always improve over time.
With practice.
As we officially step into fall, debate programs and clubs around the nation are up and running and teaching young people how to use their voices to become leaders, make changes, and become stronger human beings.
For us at DebateAble, this is the most exciting time of year: reconnecting with returning debaters, getting to know new debaters, and joining forces with teachers and parents to bring debate to children in Seattle, Washington and across the country.
Welcome to a new season of Debate!
Elizabeth Kruse
Director, DebateAble
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COACH TIP
From Coach Sarah Holt
John Hay Debate Club
Seattle, Washington
My tip for new coaches or club leaders is that, if you are nervous and unsure about teaching Debate, especially in the beginning, do what I tell my students.
As long as you project your voice, use calm body language, and think about all the of "conduct" elements that we teach from DebateAble's Curriculum, like making eye contact and speaking slowly, you can fool most people!
You may not always know exactly what you're talking about, but if you appear as if you do, you'll do fine!
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DEBATE THIS!
Every month we suggest a topic to debate with your kids. Try it at the dinner table or in the car! You can p
ractice the skills our DebateAble students learn by taking the side you are least passionate about to make your debate more challenging!
September's Topic:
"Fear is a good thing."
Can you debate the
Affirmative
and
Negative sides of this topic?
Some things to think about before you make your argument ...
Is fear real?
What's actually behind "fear"?
Does fear have a purpose?
Can fear be controlled or overcome?
What are the pros and cons of fear?
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Starting a Debate Club at your school is easy!
We can help - contact us to find out how to make it happen!
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