2024 Summer Debate Camp | Boost Your Child's Confidence

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5 Best Summer Debate Camps in 2024

As summer approaches, students and parents alike begin the search for enriching summer activities. For those interested in sharpening their argumentative prowess and public speaking skills, debate camps offer an unparalleled opportunity. Among the myriad options, a few stand out for their exceptional programs, accomplished instructors, and the ability to transform novices into eloquent speakers and critical thinkers. Here's a look at the 5 best debate camps, including the distinguished American Debate League, that promise a summer of growth, learning, and fun.

#1 – American Debate League

The American Debate League was founded in 2014 as the nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization to provide young people of all backgrounds the opportunity to develop debating, speaking and literacy skills through debate training and competitions that will ultimately improve self-esteem, academic achievement, graduation success rates, and access to higher education.

American Debate League will:

Provide opportunities for students to participate in competitive debate competitions bi-monthly or quarterly throughout the year.
Provide Summer Debate Camps for elementary to high school students.
Provide Regional Debate Centers to provide debate and public speaking education to those students who do not have access to a debate program in their schools.

The American Debate League stands out for its commitment to providing a comprehensive debate experience that caters to students at all levels of expertise. Located conveniently for those searching for impactful summer learning, the League's camp focuses on public speaking, critical thinking, and effective communication. With a curriculum designed by highly qualified instructors, participants enjoy a blend of fun and learning, mastering the art of debate in an engaging and supportive environment. Beyond summer, the League offers year-round programs to ensure continuous improvement and skill development.

#2 – Harvard Debate Council

Harvard University's Debate Council offers one of the most prestigious summer debate programs in the country. Aimed at high school students, the camp provides an intensive experience that covers various forms of debate, including policy, public forum, and parliamentary styles. Taught by current and former members of the Harvard Debate Council, attendees benefit from world-class coaching, gaining insights into advanced argumentation and strategy.

Top Instructors
Our instructors have reached the highest levels of competition as coaches and as competitors. They all share a spirit of wanting to help students from around the world benefit from the activity!

All Levels
We provide programs for students with any degree of experience, from those with no exposure to debate or public speaking to those preparing to win national tournaments.

Years of Excellence
The Harvard Debate Council has been offering summer workshops for over 35 years. We pride ourselves on continuing to grow based on our experience.

Why Learn With Us?

Established for Over 35 Years
Low Student-Faculty Ratio
Harvard Debate Council Excellence

#3 – Cornell International Summer Debate Camp

Hosted by Cornell University, this camp welcomes students from across the globe, offering a unique opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives and debating styles. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking and public speaking skills, preparing students for success in national and international competitions. With a mix of workshops, seminars, and actual debates, participants leave with a deeper understanding of the nuances of competitive debating.

4. Richmond Debate Institute

Located at the University of Richmond, this institute provides a nurturing environment for students to explore and deepen their debate skills. Offering sessions for both novice and advanced debaters, the camp covers a wide range of formats and topics. Instructors, drawn from the university's acclaimed debate team and alumni, focus on personalized feedback and strategy development, ensuring each student can achieve their full potential.

5. Emory University High School Debate Camps

Emory University's debate camps are known for their excellence in training and competitive success. With a history of producing national champions, the camp offers rigorous instruction in policy debate, public forum, and Lincoln-Douglas debate. Students benefit from Emory's experienced coaching staff and the opportunity to compete in practice tournaments, honing their skills in a challenging yet supportive environment.

Choosing the right debate camp can significantly impact a student's speaking, reasoning, and analytical skills. The camps listed above represent the best in providing a comprehensive, enriching experience that prepares young debaters for success both in competition and in life. Whether you're a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced debater aiming to refine your skills, these camps offer the resources, coaching, and community to help you achieve your goals.