Are you getting feedback from school teachers that your child isn’t speaking up in class or speaks too softly?
Could it be due to a lack of self-confidence, inability to find the right words to express their thoughts, or a shy personality? Understanding the reason why your child is shy or reserved could help to address the problem.
Being a confident speaker does not come naturally to a child, and it takes time and a lot of practice for many to develop it. Here are some effective ways to help your child to speak confidently.
1. Reading Aloud
A great way to build confidence and help your child to speak up is by developing a passion for reading and narrating the story out loud. Not only do they learn new vocabulary, but they also experience different character voices and tones to express different emotions and personalities. You can also record their reading and get your child to listen to it together. This way, you’ll be able to help your child correct their tone and speech.
2. Make It Fun
Children love role-playing, and playing pretend. Have your child pretend he or she is the teacher in class and guide your child to practice projection of voice to an audience. This is also a good way to develop their self-confidence and oration.
Using props is also a fun way to help your child project his/her voice. You can explore making a set of telephones through the use of empty rolls or plastic cups, or even the use of microphones or loudspeakers to let them hear themselves speak loudly.
3. Encourage Your Child and Avoid Comparisons
Encouraging your child to speak up can take place anywhere. At home, you can encourage your child to actively participate in conversations, sharing of opinions, and engage in decision-making. When you are out dining, you can let your child place the order for his or her meals, or even ask the service staff for assistance. Small, simple experiences are the building blocks of your child’s confidence.
As a parent, avoid comparing your child with their peers or embarrass them in front of others as this will lead to greater reluctance to speak out in the future. When they do speak up, wait for them to finish and praise them for their effort. You should always acknowledge your child to let them know they are being heard.
Every child needs parents’ guiding hands and encouragement to help them grow and express themselves with confidence. If your child is soft-spoken, do try out any one of the tips we have shared above to guide your child.
Here at The Eton Academy, we are committed to working hand in hand with you to provide the best learning experience for your child by allowing them to explore their capabilities through self-discovery. Experience a class first-hand to find out more! Sign up for a free trial class here.