Performing Arts Debate Lab Redondo Beach

The program introduces the International Public Debate Association format step by step. Campers learn how to organize an argument, roadmap key points, find credible support, use appropriate tone, listen for weaknesses in another case, ask cross-examination questions, and build a rebuttal. Workshops cover persuasion, vocabulary, voice and speech, public speaking, opinion and reason, pros and cons, open-mindedness, empathy, respect, critical thinking, problem solving, debate structure, procedure, and strategy. The curriculum also includes round-table discussion and a debate of the day.

Debates are structured as learning exercises rather than competitions. The whole class discusses an approved, age-appropriate topic, then students are assigned to sides so they practice making a case even when it is not their first opinion. After each debate, the group reflects on the arguments and whether anyone’s view changed or became stronger. Along the way, campers practice active listening, collaboration, persuasive writing, leadership, vocabulary, and clear public speaking.

The specialty instruction sits within a regular camp day. Campers begin with a shared warm-up and social circle, then split into their specialty workshops with a specialized instructor. Snack, lunch, play periods, and selected full-camp group activities break up the academic work.

Campers should bring a non-perishable mid-morning snack, a complete lunch, and a beverage or water for the day. Performing Arts Workshops does not provide food or drinks and does not provide refrigeration, so families need to pack items that can stay safe without chilling. The registration information also asks families to send enough food and water for the child’s camp day. Dietary or allergy information should be disclosed during enrollment when relevant to the camper.

Daily sign-in and sign-out are required. A child may leave with another authorized person only when the family has provided the required authorization, and independent walking or biking also requires written permission. Performing Arts Workshops says its teachers are screened and vetted and undergo criminal background checks. The Redondo Beach site has a defined pickup window and closes at 3:20 PM because Extended Play is not offered there.

Families are asked to disclose allergies, medications, disabilities, and special needs during enrollment. When written permission is provided, Performing Arts Workshops may be able to help administer simple medications in some cases. Parents should meet the on-site director early on the first day when medication arrangements are needed and provide clearly labeled medication with instructions.

Specialty workshops are led by instructors assigned to the program area. Performing Arts Workshops says its teachers are professionals in their fields, have or are working toward bachelor’s or master’s degrees, and have experience working with children. Teachers are screened, vetted, and undergo criminal background checks. The family information lists a staffing level of one adult for every 10 to 12 children, while the Debate Lab page lists a maximum of 12 students per site per session.

Parents can contact the Performing Arts Workshops office when they need to reach the camp. The program describes its camp sites as cell-free zones for staff during the day, while on-site directors and teachers call the office several times daily. Office staff can relay messages between families and the on-site team when needed.

Regular drop-off at Redondo Beach is 8:45–9:00 AM, with camp running from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Sunrise Students may enter from 8:00 AM when that option is arranged. Pickup and supervised play continue until 3:10 PM. This location does not offer Extended Play and closes at 3:20 PM; late supervision after that time is charged by the minute. Families should follow the sign-in/out authorization rules and send a non-perishable snack, complete lunch, and water or another beverage.