Debate it Forward (DIF) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that teaches core debate skills to currently excluded populations (young students, students with diagnosed learning differences, and students of low-income). In our first year, we’ve taught 80+ kids across 5 different schools and we are thrilled to announce our first summer camp!
DIF Summer Camp combines debate’s cognitive stimulation and academic rigor with the fun and immersive aspects of a summer camp. Our debaters are explorers; the first half of the day we go on a field trip (changes each day), and afterwards, we utilize our field research findings into debate games, activities, and competitions. For example, one of our daily topics is debating renewable energy and environmental impacts and that day, we will be heading to MSI and have special exhibits booked to learn and conduct our research. There’s also a large break in the middle of the day where we do non-debate activities (e.g. sports and arts and crafts), as we believe moderation is key to the kids having fun and staying focused!
Sign up Link: https://form.jotform.us/70874192629163
Logistics:
When: Session 1: June 12-16. Session 2: August 21-25
Where: 1100 E Hyde Park Blvd, Chicago, IL 60615
Times: 9:00 AM-3:00 PM (with optional hours of before-care and after-care)
Cost: $350, including lunch and snacks (financial aid, ranging from partial to full scholarships, available based on need)
Ages: 8-14 years old
Prior debate experience required: None
Why?
1. Fun and enjoyment! We incorporate competitive games, improvisational activities, logic puzzles, and other activities to keep kids engaged and participating. Our students gain skills while hanging out with friends and having a great time!
2. Social and emotional benefits! Evidence shows that children with debate experience report higher levels of pro-social and empathetic behavior, an increase in inclusive behavior, and an increased perception of safety.
3. Academic and cognitive benefits! Studies demonstrate that children who participate in debate have greatly increased school performances, as well as gains in IQ. Reports (including our own anecdotal evidence) also show that debaters develop more sophisticated analytical thinking skills, reading and writing abilities, as well as a more comprehensive understanding of a wide range of issues and social problems.
For more information, email us at directors@debateitforward.org or check out our website debateitforward.org.
