Persuade Me!

Child development / Drama games / Persuade me

Persuade Me is a lively speaking challenge where children practice making a clear argument about something they genuinely enjoy.

By explaining their ideas and giving convincing reasons, they build confidence, persuasive language and critical thinking skills.

Child and drama teacher playing a drama game

How to play

1. Choose a favourite thing

Ask your child to think of something they really love.

For example:

A sport
A hobby
A food
A book
A game

2. Let them introduce it

Ask your child to tell you what they have chosen and why they like it.

3. Introduce the challenge

Reply by saying:

"No, I don't think I'd like that. Persuade me then."

4. Build persuasive arguments

Your child must explain why their choice is brilliant and why you should enjoy it too.

5. Encourage detailed reasoning

Encourage them to include:

Examples
Exciting descriptions
Personal experiences
Benefits and advantages

6. Swap roles

Choose something you enjoy and let your child challenge you to persuade them.

What it teaches

Persuasive speaking
Confidence expressing ideas
Organisation of thoughts
Vocabulary development
Public speaking skills
Critical thinking

Variations to try

30-second challenge - Give your child 30 seconds to make their most convincing argument.
Mystery topic - Choose a topic for each other instead of picking your own favourite.
Silly persuasion - Try persuading each other about funny ideas, such as why bedtime should be in the morning.

Principal's notes

Children are usually most persuasive when speaking about something they genuinely care about. Encourage enthusiasm, detailed examples, and expressive language rather than simple repetitive statements.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.