How Parents Can Support Their Child in Speech & Debate (Even Without Experience)

Your child just joined a speech and debate club. Amazing! But now you’re wondering:

“How can I help them… if I’ve never done this myself?”

Don’t worry—you don’t need to be a coach or performer to support your student. At Forensics Forever, we believe the best support comes from encouragement, structure, and celebration.

Here are a few simple but powerful ways to support your child’s speaking journey:

1. Be Their Practice Audience

When your child rehearses their speech at home, listen with your full attention—even if it’s their 10th run-through. Smile. Nod. Clap. Your energy becomes their confidence. You can even ask them to perform for siblings, friends, or pets!

💡 Bonus: Ask them what feedback they want. Do they want to fix mistakes—or just hear how great they sound?

2. Ask Thoughtful Questions

Help your child reflect and clarify their ideas with open-ended questions like:

• “Why did you choose this topic?”

• “What message do you want the audience to take away?”

• “What’s the most fun part of your speech?”

These questions help your student think critically about their message—and remind them that their voice matters.

3. Celebrate Every Step

Whether they just gave their first impromptu speech or broke into finals at a tournament, make a big deal out of it. Take pictures. Write a note. Share a social media post.

And don’t forget the G.O.A.T. Track! Your student will earn badges and recognition for each level of progress—from “Rising Rookie” to full-on G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time!). Celebrate each step—and watch their confidence soar.

🙌 Supporting your child is easier than you think—and it makes all the difference.

👉 Want to get started or learn more about how our club works?
Our programs are designed with both students and parents in mind.

🎓 Register now for Forensics Forever’s Speech & Debate Club »
📞 Prefer to talk it through first? Book a Discovery Call here