Unlocking Potential: The Benefits of Debate Camp ~ Children Ages 9-14

Summer break is an ideal time for children to explore new skills and interests that extend beyond the classroom. One engaging and transformative option is participating in a debate summer camp. Noncompetitive debate camps provide a structed environment where children can learn to articulate their thoughts and ideas. Standing before their peers, builds self-assurance and helps participants overcome the fear of public speaking. This newfound confidence often translates into other areas of their lives, from school presentations to social interactions.

Debating is not just about arguing a point, it’s about understanding both sides of an issue, analyzing information, and forming well-reasoned arguments. These skills encourage children to think critically and approach problems with a balanced perspective, setting a strong foundation for academic and personal success. Effective communication is at the heart of any debate. Children will get to practice organizing their thoughts, choosing precise language, and delivering their arguments with clarity. These communication skills are invaluable, not only in academics but also in everyday interactions.

To be successful in debating, participants must understand opposing viewpoints. This practice nurtures empathy and open-mindedness, teaching children to appreciate diverse perspectives and engage in respectful discourse which is a critical skill in our increasingly interconnected world. A Debate camp often includes group activities and paired debating exercises. Working alongside peers fosters teamwork, listening skills, and the ability to build on each other’s ideas. It also provides a sense of camaraderie as children bond over shared experiences and challenges. The skills gained in a debate camp directly contribute to improved academic performance. Analytical thinking, persuasive writing, and enhanced listening skills are all tools that support classroom learning. Additionally, the ability to express oneself confidently can make classroom participation less daunting.

A one-week debate camp is more than just a temporary activity. It’s an investment in a child’s personal growth and development. From building confidence to fostering empathy and teamwork, the skills gained during this experience can leave a lasting impact. Above all, it gives kids a chance to have fun while challenging themselves. With engaging topics, creative activities, and a supportive environment, children enjoy the thrill of learning without the pressure of grades or exams.

Performing Arts Workshops offers a one-week Debate Camp curriculum which engenders a deep and abiding appreciation for words and ideas, helps to develop empathy, constructive dialogue, civic-mindedness, teaches how to deal with peer-pressure, and gives tools for developing self-confidence, public speaking skills, building a powerful vocabulary, as well as teaching the finer points of language arts.

• We at Performing Arts Workshops work to provide a non-competitive, nurturing and fun environment for our campers.

• PAW’s Debate Camp is open to children ages 9-14. Children are enrolled in camp on a first come, first served basis. Camp maximum: 10 students per site per session to provide personal attention.

• PAW instructors will draw from a list of approved age-appropriate topics for children to debate. No political or religious topics will be presented at any time.

• Students will conduct whole-class discussions of topics and explore all sides of an issue, then placed into team groups and assigned a side of the topic to defend.

• Debate topics will close with each student having the opportunity to discuss their opinions on the topic and if after the debate, if their opinion has gotten stronger and why, or if after the debate their opinion has changed and why.

• Curriculum includes engaging activities such as: Power of Persuasion, Wordplay & Vocabulary Building, Art of Public Speaking, Pros & Cons, Rebuttal ~ Or, Yes But…, Debate of the Day, and Round Table Discussions.

Whether your child dreams of a future in law, leadership, or just wants to become a better communicator, debate camp provides the tools they need to thrive. Plus, the friendships and memories formed during the week are bonuses they’ll cherish for years to come. If you want more information about camp, our office staff is always there to help you at (310) 827-8827 or just visit their website - PerformingArtsWorkshops.com.

By Rosalyn Skinner

Administrative Manager of Performing Arts Workshops, winner of BEST SUMMER CAMP in LA Parent Magazine.

With 8 camp locations to choose from, PAW is local to families near El Segundo, Northridge, Pasadena, Rancho Palos Verdes, Redondo Beach, Studio City, Torrance and West LA. To learn more about Performing Arts Workshops, call (310) 827-8827 for more information or visit https://performingartsworkshops.com/

PAW’s 2025 camp offerings of award-winning camps provide a well-rounded arts experience for children including : Musical Theater Camp, Actor’s Sizzle Reel, Stage FX Makeup, Guitar, Story Slam, Top Pop Choir, Photography, Debate Club, and LOL Stand Up Comedy!

At PAW, kids ages 5 ½ to 14 just need a curiosity and a passion for performing, whether they are novices or seasoned thespians. Pick your favorite activity or try them all! Your child will shine on stage for the ultimate arts experience from rehearsal to performance, where each session ends with a FREE creative performance enjoyed by the families of PAW campers. This summer the Musical Theater kids can perform in children’s adaptations of WICKED, HOGWARTS SCHOOL MUSICAL, ALICE IN WONDERLAND or BARBIE DREAM MUSICAL. PAW teachers are nurturing, skilled instructors who are dedicated to fostering a safe, non-competitive environment, where children can use the arts as a medium with which to learn communication, compassion, collaboration, and creativity. They work together to bring out the best in each child and create a summer experience where kids will make friends and lifelong memories.

Performing Arts Workshops ~ the ultimate ARTS experience.

Part Art…Part Play…ALL FUN!