Public Speaking: A Way for Homeschoolers to Stand Out

Homeschoolers today face a compound crisis: beyond having a limited arsenal of social opportunities, the online era has also caused them to miss out on crucial interpersonal skills gained from everyday interactions. This not only makes children feel isolated, but it also directly impacts their future success academically.

However, building co-curricular portfolios and activities can bridge the gap towards future success and overall wellbeing and happiness. Engaging children with a healthy number of competitions and extracurricular activities can set the foundation for a uniquely mature and successful child.[1]

Most parents know this, of course, which is why many homeschoolers have gone on to pursue incredible achievements and live happy lives. These kids also have the potential to outshine their school-attending peers due to the absence of negative social influences. Beyond having the time to pursue hobbies independently, these students tend to score higher on standardized tests and are more confident in social settings.[2]

One critical skill that benefits homeschooled children tremendously is developing public speaking skills. The process of composing, refining, memorizing, and ultimately presenting a perfect speech is a skill that is beneficial throughout our lives. From wedding speeches to board meetings, and even to pitching yourself to new people in order to form a contact with them (called “elevator speeches”), public speaking offers universal skills that benefit everyone. The earlier a child is exposed to this process, the more likely they will find success with it later on in life.[3]

Beyond becoming successful adults, in terms of the college admission process, competitive institutions have an immense desire to attract teens who possess leadership qualities – some may say they desire it in excess. Kids who can demonstrate their leadership skills through opportunities such as leading a chapter of an organization, speaking publicly, or participating in competitions have a leg up in admissions. They can show their power to cajole others using the power of grit, intelligence, and character.[4]

[1] https://nomadinternet.com/blogs/countrynomad/how-to-help-homeschooled-children-gain-interpersonal-skills

[2] https://www.time4learning.com/blog/homeschool/homeschool-myth-lack-socialization/

[3] https://www.thesimplehomeschooler.com/teach-public-speaking-homeschool/#:~:text=One%20Reason%3A%20Public%20speaking%20is,other%20areas%20of%20their%20life.

[4] https://www.theatlantic.com/education/archive/2014/01/why-are-american-colleges-obsessed-with-leadership/283253/