Do debates benefit children?

In a world that is under continuous flux, it is required to be well aware of the developments happening around followed by the ability to judge if these are right or wrong. It has become very essential to hold strong ground and opinions on issues surrounding us. Engaging in a debate is an example of an activity that will improve a student’s ability to question things, become more aware, and develop critical thinking skills. Analytical skills are one of the most wanted skills in a candidate applying for an interview. Debates help a person ask questions, understand different topics, and build an overall understanding of the subject.

Debates are also good for honing your public speaking skills and taking a strong grip on your communication skills. While engaging in a healthy debate, students also come to know what are the ways which should not be used in a debate to keep opinions. Things like waiting for the other to finish, being assertive, and not abusive should be kept in mind while participating in a debate. It also helps a student understand that the world lives in differing perspectives. It is important to understand that everybody is made of a different mindset and may believe in something you don’t. Debates help to normalize this idea among students.

They improve a person’s communication and interpersonal skills because it continuously provides opportunities to engage in a dialogue with other people. It boosts confidence and self-esteem of an individual as he/she is continuously being exposed to different people, ideas and thoughts. Debates also help students to develop strategic thinking and listening skills. Listening has been an overlooked skill in many areas and the importance of which is not paid attention to. Being involved in debates gives a golden opportunity to students to learn and understand the significance of being a good listener. Additionally, it gives many students the opportunity to gain knowledge on various subjects and issues. Debates also teach teamwork and the ability to organize thoughts.
Debates help children not only in the speech part but also in the research phase. A student participating in a debate competition learns how there are always different perspectives to a scenario. This also helps the student to learn analytical skills and an innovative approach to problem-solving. It teaches a student presentation skills and brings about intellectual development in a child. Persuasion is also considered an art and it is very important to be inculcated in a child who is growing up. Debates help a child by developing persuasion skills. Often, great leaders are good orators. They know exactly what to speak and how to speak at the correct time. They also know how to convince people. That’s exactly how debates also help children in teaching them the skills to convince people through their oration, confidence, and strong ground.
Every child should be encouraged to participate in such debates owing to sharpening their skills in communication, confidence, self-esteem, expanding knowledge in the concerned subject areas, public speaking, etc.

By-Alankrita