Michael P. Farris, Esq.
Chairman &
General Counsel

Toastmasters: A Great Way to Practice Public Speaking

Volume 40, Program 28 10/16/2002

Public speaking clubs are a great way for students to hone their speaking skills. HSLDA president Mike Smith describes one such group on today's Home School Heartbeat.

Mike Smith:


As you prepare your children to become good public speakers, consider starting a public speaking club for your junior high and high school students. Toastmasters International, the premiere network of public speaking clubs for adults, has developed a module for students called the Youth Leadership Program. Each program is sponsored by a local chapter of Toastmasters and provides an opportunity for students to learn the basics of public speaking while operating their own student-governed club. Students also receive coaching in other areas that will prepare them for leadership in life, such as conducting meetings and offering constructive advice.


Toastmasters clubs provide practice and expert recommendations to help speakers become more comfortable in front of an audience. For example, the Toastmasters suggest that you concentrate on the message--not the medium. Focus your attention away from your own anxieties, and turn your focus outwardly toward your message and your audience. Toastmasters also reminds its members of an important fact regarding your audience--they really want you to succeed.


The Toastmasters Youth Leadership program is designed to enhance communication and leadership skills of students in a fun, supportive environment. To find out if there is a Youth Leadership program in your area, or to start your own group, contact your local chapter of Toastmasters International. And until next time, I'm Mike Smith.

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