What is DebateAble?
DebateAble is a unique debate program for kids that emphasizes the development of critical thinking, tolerance for differing viewpoints, confidence in public speaking, and the value of teamwork.
95% of parents surveyed say DebateAble Kids Debate Program met or exceeded their expectations.
DebateAble students work together in teams of three, using researched Evidence Packets on varied topics to create arguments and refutations. Students learn to debate both sides of any topic, actively listening to the arguments of opposing teams, and realizing that there is more than one way of thinking about any single question.
Now we're talking
Fun, Kid-Friendly Topics
From current events to favorite cookies, arguing any topic from both sides broadens perspectives & teaches empathy.
Collaboration & Teamwork
Learn that the best teammates can lead & follow, support one another & value skills different from their own.
Critical Thinking Skills
Practice logical, evidence-based argumentation, deeper reasoning & the ability to anticipate & respond to counter arguments.
Persuasive Writing & Speaking
Enhance persuasive writing skills; improve written & spoken arguments.
Confidence Booster
Build confidence & self-esteem through public speaking, independent thinking & personal expression.
Meet our team
Elizabeth Kruse, Co-Founder & CEO
As a former Assistant District Attorney in New York City for over a decade trying homicides and other felony crimes, Elizabeth understands the value of a well-prepared argument. She continued to work in and out of the legal field after relocating to Seattle in 2002.
Her passion for education, civil discourse, and empowering young people motivated her to take the position of Debate Program Manager for the nonprofit Successful Schools in Action. There, she ran the elementary debate program across multiple schools before launching DebateAble in 2012. She developed the one-of-its-kind curriculum with input from college and high school debaters, debate coaches, educators- and kids, of course! Today, DebateAble is bringing debate and the skills it teaches to children both nationally and internationally, in classrooms, after school clubs and online.
When she's not running DebateAble, you may find Elizabeth spending time with her husband and two sons, in the kitchen cooking for family and friends, or anywhere in the world with a good book in hand.
Laura lives in Bellingham, WA, with her cats, Gomez and Shady, and spends her spare time reading, cooking, meditating, doing yoga, hanging out with her family and volunteering with her local independent movie theater.
Watch DebateAble in action.
We see the empowerment that comes when upper elementary students participate in debate. From public speaking to civil discourse to teamwork, and more. Your students can do this too. See for yourself.
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