Talk like a pirate
Learn to talk like a pirate by practicing fun pirate phrases, creating a simple pirate script, and performing with friends to build confidence.
Step-by-step guide to talk like a pirate
Pirate Captain Jay How to Talk Like a Pirate | Learning Videos for Kids
Step 1
Gather all your materials and sit at a clear table or floor space.
Step 2
Say these five pirate words out loud: Ahoy Matey Avast Arrr Shiver me timbers.
Step 3
Pick three pirate phrases you like and tell an adult which ones you chose.
Step 4
Write a short pirate script on your paper with three to six very short lines.
Step 5
Give each friend or family member a pirate role name from your script.
Step 6
Make a simple cardboard prop or put on a bandana as your pirate costume.
Step 7
Practice saying each line slowly with a pirate voice one time.
Step 8
Choose one pirate gesture for each line and practice doing the gestures once while speaking.
Step 9
Rehearse the whole script with voices gestures and props one time through.
Step 10
Perform your pirate script for your friends or family and have fun being loud and bold.
Step 11
Share your finished pirate performance on DIY.org.
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
If I don't have cardboard or a bandana for a prop or costume, what can I use instead?
Use a paper plate folded into a pirate hat or a paper towel tube as a cardboard prop and tie an old scarf or strip of T‑shirt as a bandana, and use plain printer paper for your script.
What should we do if the child keeps forgetting lines or speaks too fast when practicing the pirate voice?
If they forget lines or rush during 'Practice saying each line slowly with a pirate voice one time,' write each line on individual cue cards and have the child point to a card before speaking to slow down and remember the line.
How can this activity be changed for younger children or for older kids who want more challenge?
For younger children shorten the 'Write a short pirate script' step to 1–2 very short lines with one gesture and sticker props, while older kids can write full 3–6 line scripts, craft detailed cardboard props, and rehearse the whole script with voices, gestures and props one time.
How can we extend or personalize the pirate performance beyond the basic instructions?
Extend the activity by making a treasure map backdrop, adding simple sound effects with spoons or a paper drum during 'Rehearse the whole script' and 'Perform your pirate script,' assigning unique costume pieces to each role, and filming the final performance to upload to DIY.org.
Watch videos on how to talk like a pirate
Elinor Wonders Why | How To Talk Like a Pirate 🏴☠️ | PBS KIDS #Shorts
3 Videos
Elinor Wonders Why | How To Talk Like a Pirate 🏴☠️ | PBS KIDS #Shorts
How to Talk Like a Pirate
How to Talk Like A Pirate | 19 September | Talk Like A Pirate Day | Fun Lessons for Kids | Twinkl
Facts about dramatic play and public speaking for kids
🗣️ 'Ahoy' was a real sailors' hail and 'avast' meant 'stop' — many pirate phrases come from old nautical language.
🎭 Performing in pirate character helps kids practice public speaking, teamwork, and confidence.
🎉 Talk Like a Pirate Day is celebrated every September 19 and started as a joke in 1995.
🧭 The Golden Age of Piracy is usually placed in the late 1600s to early 1700s, when pirates like Blackbeard sailed.
🏴☠️ The Jolly Roger (skull-and-crossbones) became a famous pirate flag in the early 1700s.
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