From Shy to Confident: How WCDC’s Public Speaking, Debate, and Writing Classes Transform Kids

Office WCDC
Aug 16
3 min read

At Westchester Child Development Center (WCDC), we believe strong communication skills are just as important as academic success. That’s why our enrichment programs feature a public speaking class, debate class, and writing class designed to help students from Kindergarten through middle school build the skills that will serve them for a lifetime.

Why Public Speaking Matters

A public speaking class isn’t just about giving speeches — it’s about giving students the confidence to share their ideas clearly and persuasively. At WCDC, children learn:

How to structure an engaging speech
Techniques for overcoming stage fright
The power of voice, tone, and body language

Parents often notice that after just a few sessions, students show greater confidence in the classroom and beyond.

Debate Class: Training Young Minds to Think Critically

In our debate class, students sharpen their reasoning and argumentation skills. Inspired by Alfred C. Snider’s The Code of the Debater, our curriculum introduces kids to the world of structured debate. They learn to:

Build logical arguments supported by evidence
Anticipate counter-arguments and respond effectively
Collaborate in teams while respecting opposing views

By practicing debate in a safe, supportive environment, students develop not only stronger academic performance but also leadership skills for the future.

Writing Class: From Imagination to Expression

Strong writing skills are the foundation of academic success. Our writing class helps children transform their ideas into clear, compelling stories and essays. Students work on:

Creative writing and storytelling
Persuasive essays and opinion pieces
Grammar, structure, and vocabulary development

By tailoring lessons to grade level — from early writers in K–G2 to advanced learners in G3–G5 — WCDC ensures every child grows as a confident communicator.

Saturday Enrichment Schedule

Families can conveniently enroll in our weekend program, where the public speaking class, debate class, and writing class are all part of our Saturday offerings.

Time Slot	Program & Grade Level
10:00–11:00 AM	Writing (K–G2)
11:00–12:00 PM	Writing (G3–G5)
1:00–2:00 PM	Public Speaking & Debate (K–G2)
2:00–3:00 PM	Public Speaking & Debate (G3–G5)
3:00–4:00 PM	Public Speaking & Debate (G6–G8)

This schedule makes it easy for children to take part in different tracks, whether they’re just starting with writing class, or moving into higher-level debate class and public speaking class as they grow.

Meet Our Teacher: Laurence C. Schwartz

WCDC is proud to have Mr. Laurence C. Schwartz lead our communication courses. Mr. Schwartz has directed over 40 original plays in New York City at prestigious venues such as Theatre Row, The Players Theatre, and the New York Theatre Festival. He holds a BFA from Boston University and an MA from Hunter College/CUNY, and he is a union-affiliated member of the Actors’ Equity Association (AEA).

What sets Mr. Schwartz apart is his ability to merge the artistry of theatre with the structure of academic learning. His students don’t just practice public speaking, debating, or writing — they experience the craft of storytelling, persuasive performance, and critical analysis at a professional level. Parents consistently see their children grow in confidence, creativity, and leadership under his guidance.

What Makes WCDC Different from School Programs

While schools may touch on writing or public speaking in limited ways, WCDC offers something deeper:

Professional-level coaching from an educator with Broadway and festival directing experience.
Small class sizes that ensure every student gets personalized feedback.
Project-based learning where every session produces a story, a polished speech, or a structured debate.
Confidence-building environment where children feel safe to explore bold ideas and creative expression.

This is what makes WCDC stand out — children are not only taught but coached, mentored, and inspired by a teacher whose background brings a real-world edge to communication skills training.

Benefits That Go Beyond the Classroom

When children join a public speaking class, debate class, or writing class at WCDC, they’re not only learning skills for today — they’re building a foundation for the future. Parents consistently tell us that these courses improve:

Confidence in school presentations
Critical thinking and problem-solving
Creativity and imagination
Collaboration with peers

Enroll Today at WCDC

Give your child the tools to shine on stage, in the classroom, and in life. Explore our public speaking, debate, and writing classes in Westchester and see how WCDC can make a difference.

📞 Contact us at 914-829-2694 or visit www.nywcdc.com to learn more.