For decades, public speaking has been labeled as one of the top fears among adults. But what if we could change that before it ever begins?
With the rise of AI, digital platforms, and remote work, students today are growing up in a world that values clarity, confidence, and communication more than ever before. According to a 2024 LinkedIn survey, communication skills topped the list of in-demand soft skills for both college and career readiness.
The Confidence Gap Starts Early
Research from the Journal of Education Psychology shows that children who begin practicing public speaking early report 33% higher self-confidence levels than peers who start later. Yet many school systems don’t formally introduce public speaking until high school—by which point many students have already developed deep anxieties.
Enter: Talentnook’s Fishbowl Program
The Fishbowl Public Speaking Program by Talentnook is designed specifically to close this gap. It introduces public speaking to students in Grades 6–8 through:
- Engaging storytelling & performance exercises
- Confidence-building games
- Real-world speaking scenarios
- Constructive peer feedback
Whether your school offers after-school enrichment or in-school elective blocks, Fishbowl adapts to your schedule with zero extra work for your staff. Sessions are led by trained educators with experience in theatre, debate, and youth leadership coaching.
Why It Matters for Schools
In California’s evolving K–12 landscape, soft skills aren’t just “nice to have”—they’re critical. Public speaking supports:
- Stronger academic performance (oral reading fluency, presentations, group work)
- Greater social-emotional development (resilience, empathy, active listening)
- Increased engagement—especially for introverted or ELL students
And with enrichment programs now a key component of ELOP and Expanded Learning plans, school leaders are seeking proven, turnkey programs that offer both academic and whole-child development.
Let’s Raise Their Voice—Together
Whether your students dream of a TED Talk or just want to conquer stage fright during a book report, Fishbowl gives them a safe, fun, and structured space to find their voice.
📩 Interested in learning more or scheduling a demo?
Visit https://talentnook.com/fishbowl or [Book a Quick Call] with our enrichment team.