Confident public speaking is a crucial, but often overlooked and underdeveloped skill. Developing effective communication skills and techniques provide youth with a positive sense of self and higher levels of self-confidence. This empowers them to achieve and succeed in any situation they encounter. More information on the benefits and importance of developing effective public speaking skills in youth can be found in this article.

Good public speakers are made – not born. Check out our homegrown, right here in Currituck.

The Currituck County 4-H Public Speaking program allows youth to develop and practice these essential skills in a positive and fun learning environment under the guidance of caring volunteers and Extension staff. In this program, youth ages 8-18 research, write, practice, and deliver a 5-12 minute presentation on a topic of their choice. Youth ages 5-7 can also participate by presenting a two to four-minute presentation on the subject of their choice. All participants may compete in our District 4-H Activity Day Competition on June 26, 2026 and qualify for the NC 4-H State Public Speaking competition held on the campus of NC State University in Raleigh, NC on July 21, 2026.

Currituck County 4-H staff will host a “Presentations Ice Cream Social” on April 15, 2026 from 5:30 - 6:30 for all families interested in participating in the 2026 presentations/public speaking program. We will provide information about the program, go over the process and rules, provide a calendar of presentation program workshops and practice sessions, and provide a detailed walkthrough of the presentations categories and age groups. There are no fees for this event however pre-registration is required by visiting the Eventbrite link below.

We have also scheduled a series of work sessions on most Wednesday and Friday afternoons from 3:30-6:00, from April 17, 2026 until June 24, 2026. Practice sessions will provide youth with assistance, tips and techniques, formatting, preparation, poise (appearance and body language) and practice in a safe and friendly environment. To schedule your child just call the 4-H staff (252-232-2262) and let us know the date and time. If these scheduled sessions do not fit your schedule-call the 4-H staff and we will work with you to find an alternate time.

For more information on categories, rules and general information on the 2026 NC 4-H Presentations program check out the 2026 4-H Handbook.

For questions or more information or if you need accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact Sherry Fischlschweiger at slfischl@ncsu.edu or by calling 252-232-2262 no later than 10 days prior to the event you wish to attend.