Activity: Host a “Debate Club for Kids” – Fun Arguments with Purpose

Perfect for: Indoors at the table, classroom corners, or outdoor picnics

Best for: Kids aged 7+ (great for building wisdom, logic, empathy, and confidence)

Activity Description:

Start a simple and playful debate club where kids choose silly or thoughtful topics and take turns arguing both sides. It helps them learn how to think clearly, speak respectfully, and understand other points of view—all while laughing and learning.

1. Pick a Debate Topic

Let kids choose fun and age-appropriate prompts like:

• “Should pets be allowed in school?”
• “Is it better to be fast or smart?”
• “Would you rather fly or be invisible?”
• “Are books better than TV?”
• “Is it ever okay to break a rule?”

2. Assign Sides (or Let Kids Pick)

• Divide into two teams or let each child try both sides
• Emphasize that it’s a game, not a fight—they’re learning how to see both views

3. Make the Rules Fun and Kind

• 1–2 minutes per side to speak
• No interrupting
• Listen, then repeat the other side’s point before your rebuttal
• Everyone claps at the end

4. Add a Wisdom Twist

After each round, ask:

• “Which side was harder to defend?”
• “What did you learn from the other side?”
• “Is there a wise way to find a middle ground?”
• “What would a kind or fair person say here?”

5. Let Kids Be Judges Too

• Take turns judging who made the clearest point, the funniest line, or the kindest argument
• Celebrate with made-up awards:
  
  • “Brain Builder Badge”
  • “Logic Lightning Trophy”
  • “Empathy Expert Award”

Bonus Tip:

Create a “Debate Jar” full of prompts and draw one out each time you play. Add serious ones over time, like “Should we always tell the truth?” or “What makes someone a good leader?”

This activity turns playful arguments into practicing reasoning, listening, and respectful disagreement—skills that build both intelligence and character. Type n when you’re ready for the next idea!