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hildren often feel passionate about ideas but fail to defend them clearly, leaving their arguments vulnerable to stronger voices. Teaching them to ask, “What evidence backs my claim?” trains them to construct reasoned arguments — a core tool for advocacy, leadership, and intellectual resilience.

One afternoon, my son campaigned for more screen time, citing how much his friends played. I challenged him: “What’s your best reason, and can you prove it helps you?” He reflected, tested focus after short play breaks, and discovered it actually harmed his concentration. Realizing his claim lacked solid ground was a milestone: he learned that strong opinions need stronger evidence.

Develop this strength through “Case Builder” exercises each week. Pick a real topic your child cares about and have them draft three reasons supporting their view, finding evidence for at least one. Keep a “Reason Book” to track their cases. Debate games and apps like “Argument Lab” offer engaging practice. In time, they will stand their ground with clarity, logic, and grace.

TIPS

• Ask “What proves this?” to grow critical thinking
• Praise supported claims to build confidence
• Use fun topics like games or snack rules
• Keep a log of tested claims
• Stage debates with family for practice

ACTIVITIES

• Opinion Builder: Choose a view, write 3 reasons, check one with a source — 10 min
• Mini-Debate: Argue a topic, defend with one fact — 10 min
• Case File: Pick a claim, list pros and cons, research one point — 10 min