I'm reading the book, From Playpen to Podium by Jeff Myers which has inspired me to raise my children to be more comfortable speaking in public than I was as a child. We will hold a Speech Night once a month. Each of the children, my husband and I will participate. As we become more comfortable to speaking in public we will invite family to be part of the audience via skype. The children can choose to memorize a historical speech or poem or they can write their own speech or story to share.
We only had two weeks to prepare for our first Speech Night so most of the children chose a short poem. One chose to read from the Declaration of Independence and one chose the Constitution.
I set up a stage in front of the lawn on the side of our house. We also bought treats at the store as a reward for each participant. To help make the day more special we made a favorite summer meal- grilled burgers, corn and potato salad. After Speech Night was over homemade chocolate ice cream was served for dessert.
I think this will be a fun monthly event for us to enjoy together. My 14-year old plans to give a persuasive speech on why he should be able to eat bread again(we are gluten-free). At least they will be sure of having their opinions heard at least once a week!
