Speak for 15 Seconds

Child development / Drama games / Speak for fifteen seconds

This simple speaking exercise encourages children to talk confidently and fluently without stopping, helping them focus and think on the spot.

By practising continuous speech, children build resilience, clarity and confidence in expressing their ideas out loud.

This game creates a supportive environment where effort is celebrated, making speaking in front of others feel achievable and positive.

How to play

1. Explain the game

Tell the children they will practise speaking without stopping.

2. Model it

Choose a simple subject and talk continuously for 15 seconds.

For example: "My cat is so cute. His name is... He is... years old. He has a very fluffy coat..."

3. Highlight the goal

Explain that you spoke for 15 seconds without any gaps.

4. Children have a turn

Ask if anyone would like to try. Give them a subject or let them choose their own.

5. Speak continuously

Ask the child to speak continuously on that subject for 15 seconds without stopping.

Use topics such as "My mum..." "My best friend..." "My school..." or "My job..."

6. Celebrate effort

Praise everyone for trying, focusing on effort and confidence rather than perfection.

What it teaches

Confidence in speaking
Fluency
Focus
Thinking on the spot
Extended communication

Variations to try

Increase or decrease the time depending on the age and confidence of the group.
Pair children up and let them practise before speaking to the whole group.
Add a gentle challenge by asking children to include three specific details in their talk.

Principal's notes

This simple exercise is brilliant for building verbal confidence and fluency. Children learn to keep going even if they momentarily run out of ideas, helping them develop resilience and clarity when speaking in front of others.

Lucy Quick, Principal of Perform.