Let's inspire kids

to speak up

SpeechMaze Games is a unique opportunity for children aged 8-17 to showcase their voice, creativity, and leadership through the art of speech

Helping Kids Build Confidence

How It Works

  • Register today
  • Get an email from us with instructions on preparing and submitting speeches by May 16 (Round 1)
  • Finalists will be announced on May 19 and invited to the virtual event on June 7 with an audience and judges (Round 2)

Upcoming Events

Register for only $20!

07

June

Final Round
12PM EST | 9AM PST Virtual

Why Participate?

Boost Confidence

Speaking in front of an audience helps young people overcome shyness and develop self-assurance

Develop Lifelong Skills

Learning to express ideas clearly and persuasively benefits participants in school, career, and beyond

Creativity and Critical Thinking

Crafting a speech encourages critical thinking, organization, and creative expression

Gain Experience and Prizes

Winners receive exciting rewards, and all participants gain valuable, lifelong experience

Your Kids Deserve To Be
Seen and Heard

Round 1 Submissions Due May 16

FAQs

Who can participate?

The competition is open to children between the ages of 8 and 17 on the day of the competition. Students will be divided into two categories: Ages 8-12 and Ages 13-17. Participants do not need prior public speaking experience, but they should be willing to prepare and deliver a speech.

Yes, there is a small registration fee to cover event costs.

The competition fee is non-refundable with the exception of active TalkMaze students who participate. Active TalkMaze students will receive a refund of the fee after their participation in the competition.

In the first round, participants will submit a recorded video speech of 2-5 minutes in length on the provided topic. The topic will be emailed to participants after registration.

Finalists will be invited on May 19 to present live at our virtual event on a NEW topic on June 7. The topic for finalists will be released on May 19.

Each speech should be between 2 to 5 minutes long. Exceeding the time limit may result in point deductions.

Each competition will have a specific theme or list of topics. The speech topic for Round 1 will be emailed to you as soon as you register so be sure to sign up early! Students must speak on the given topic but are welcome to take a creative spin.

The topics for the final round will be released on the same day as the finalists are announced.

No, speeches should be delivered without the use of props or visual aids. The focus is on verbal and nonverbal communication skills.

Participants may use brief note cards, but reading directly from a script is discouraged.

  • The speech must be original and meant to inform, entertain, or persuade.
  • Research is permitted, but each source must be accurately referenced.
  • Not more than 10% of a speech may consist of quoted materials.
  • Speeches must be substantially different from any speech presented in class or at a previous competition.

 Speeches are evaluated by a panel of experienced judges based on the following criteria:

  • Relevance to Topic: Speech directly relates to the given topic and demonstrates understanding.
  • Organization: Speech has a clear structure with an engaging introduction, well-developed body, and strong conclusion.
  • Creativity and Originality: Ideas are presented uniquely and interestingly.
  • Clarity and Articulation: Speaker enunciates clearly, uses appropriate volume, and ensures words are easily understood.
  • Confidence and Poise: Speaker appears confident, maintains good posture, and engages with the audience.
  • Pacing and Timing: Speech is delivered at an appropriate pace and within the 5-minute time limit.
  • Expressiveness: Speaker uses varied intonation and facial expressions to enhance the message.
  • Audience Engagement: Speaker effectively keeps the audience’s attention throughout the speech.
  • Memorability: Speech leaves a lasting impression with a strong message or call to action.
  • Overall Effectiveness: Speech combines content, delivery, and engagement for a powerful and coherent message.

Scores range from 1-10, with10 being exceptional and1 indicating major areas for improvement.

The top three winners will receive certificates. Additional discretionary prizes will be announced at or before the competition. Awards may also be given for categories such as “Most Engaging Speaker” or “Best Structure.”

About Us

We empower children to become confident, articulate, and creative leaders through public speaking. Our speech competition offers kids aged 8-17 a platform to showcase their voice and leadership, encouraging them to explore and grow their communication skills.

We believe every young person has a powerful story to tell, and we’re here to help them share it with the world.

Have questions left?

Get in touch with us!

Email us at hello@talkmaze.com