Yet many children feel nervous about speaking in front of others. That’s natural. With gentle support, public speaking can become a joyful experience that strengthens self-belief.
Here’s how you can help:
- Start small and safe. Encourage your child to speak at family dinners, explain a hobby to grandparents, or record a short video introducing themselves. These low-pressure moments build comfort.
- Celebrate effort, not perfection. If your child speaks up in class or volunteers for a small role, praise their bravery. Confidence grows through encouragement.
- Practise together. Help them prepare for school presentations. Ask questions, listen actively, and offer gentle feedback. Let them rehearse in front of you or a mirror.
- Use storytelling. Children love stories. Encourage them to share personal experiences or invent short tales. This builds structure, emotion, and connection.
- Model confidence. Let your child see you speak in public — even if it’s just at a parents’ meeting. Talk about how you prepare and how you handle nerves.
💡 Example:
If your child is shy, suggest they create a short “how-to” video — like “How to make slime” or “How to draw a cat.” Watching it together can be a fun way to build pride and self-awareness.
🎯 Bonus Tip:
Join a local public speaking club or drama group together. Shared experiences build trust and make learning fun.
Public speaking helps children believe in their voice. With your support, they can learn to speak not just loudly — but wisely, kindly, and bravely.
