How public speaking can help children | Public Speaking for Kids

Posted on March 14, 2012 by nafees ?

Tom is a student at the University of Aberdeen. Below he relates his story of how public speaking improved his academic attainment.

I was always a confident child. I have no idea why, but I always welcomed things as a challenge rather than as a problem. I always felt I had an excess of energy and if I never utilised every last drop it would become counter-productive, making me feel I would implode.

From the age of seven I threw myself into a variety of sports and also joined Cubs to find outlets for my boundless energy. My confidence continued to grow as I excelled in all my extracurricular activities, being recognised as the leader in all sporting situations.

By the time I started high school, my energy became a problem. I found it difficult to sit still and concentrate in class. My confidence made me feel comfortable playing up as a ?jack the lad?; amusing myself and others in class through disruptive behaviour to get through the boredom.

Recognising that school was moving too slow for my hyperactive yet intellectually adept nature, my parents searched for school-related activities that could absorb my energy and focus my mind. After trying the after- school drama and chess clubs, I eventually opted for the debating society.

Impromptu speaking cam natural to me. What I found difficult was having to write and prepare short speeches. Initially the research seemed tedious and my concentration was lacking. My parents supported me. I loved the adrenaline rush of having to think on my feet to back up counter arguments during a debate. I focussed on believing that if I never did my research properly and fully I would not have the ability to enjoy the thrill of impromptu speaking to defend myself against counter arguments.

This kept me engaged in school. I soon realised that the skills I gained from public speaking and the various public speaking subjects I researched helped me excel in the humanities, improving my concentration and enthusiasm whilst absorbing my energy.

Without public speaking my school studies would have suffered greatly. Public speaking for kids is a great activity and I strongly urge all parents to get their children involved.

Source: http://publicspeakingforkids.org/2012/03/how-public-speaking-helped-me-toms-story/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-public-speaking-helped-me-toms-story

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