Public speaking is one of the top fears of adults. Confidence in front of a crowd expands academic and career possibilities. Toastminors teaches children to enjoy the art of entertaining a crowd.

We explore a wide range of presentation forms (comedy, advertising, debate, explanation, story telling...) and teach the construction of a strong argument with thesis, supporting points and concluding statements. We also practice and discuss important skills such as reading your audience and relating to your crowd. General conversational skills are encouraged through the practice of good eye contact and appropriate body language.

The Toastminors program focuses on three goals:

  1. Public Speaking :
    • how to create a speech (introduction, body, conclusion)
    • how to deliver a speech (10 Toastminors 'keys' to success)
  2. Etiquette Training : (public speaking on a small scale)
    • how to answer the phone
    • how to answer the door
    • how to introduce your friend to an adult or another friend
    • how to speak respectfully
  3. Leadership Training :
    • the skills of listening and encouragement

Note that many children attend Toastminors for 2 years. In the first year, they complete the Toastminor program. In the second year, they graduate to a "Toastmajor" and focus on more challenging speeches and additional leadership skills.

The Toastminor program is designed for children in grades 1 through grade 3.