The Debate Lab Let’s talk

Debate for beginners

Big ideas
start here.

A playful, beginner-friendly workshop where elementary-aged students learn to speak up, listen well, and think together.

Bring it to your community Explore the program
Warm-up #01

Should recess
be longer?

Friendly face-off

Cats vs.
Dogs

Speak with confidence✦ Listen with curiosity✦ Build ideas together✦

What we’re building

Not a podium.
A playground for ideas.

The Debate Lab makes public speaking feel less intimidating—and a lot more fun.

Through lighthearted topics, guided group discussions, and simple mini debates, students practice expressing themselves in a welcoming space. The focus is not on winning. It is on finding your voice and making room for someone else’s.

01

Speak up

Share an opinion clearly—even when the butterflies show up.

02

Listen well

Hear a different point of view with patience and respect.

03

Think together

Build on ideas, work as a team, and stay curious.

Inside a session

Serious skills.
Seriously fun.

Each activity meets beginners where they are and gently invites them to take the next brave step.

  1. First

    Get comfortable

    A low-pressure icebreaker creates an encouraging room.

  2. Next

    Pick a side

    A silly, relatable prompt gets ideas moving quickly.

  3. Then

    Build the case

    Small teams turn “because!” into reasons and examples.

  4. Finally

    Share & celebrate

    Students speak, listen, reflect, and cheer one another on.

Debate sparks

What do
you think?

01

Would you rather explore space or the ocean?

02

Should every day include a little more recess?

03

Which makes the better companion: cats or dogs?

For libraries & youth organizations

Make room for
the next big idea.

The Debate Lab is designed to fit comfortably into a library, Boys & Girls Club, or other community learning space.

Ask about hosting

What you’ll need

  • Basic classroom-style seating
  • Optional whiteboard access
  • A group ready to share ideas

That’s it. The workshop is designed to keep setup simple and participation high.

Meet the facilitator

Hi, I’m Claire.

As an older sibling who is familiar with elementary-aged peer groups and activities, I have seen how much younger students light up when learning is hands-on. I created The Debate Lab to give them a joyful place to express ideas, connect with others, and grow more confident in social settings.