4 Tips To Improve Your Child's Oral Communication Skills

Excellent oral communication skills in English pave the way for academic success and future career opportunities, and it also plays a crucial role in fostering social connections and building friendships. In today’s globalised world, where English is the universal language, being able to communicate effectively opens doors to making friends and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.

However, it is essential to note that some children may struggle with communication and engaging in meaningful conversations. This is normal, as each child develops and learns at their own pace. While enrolling your child in an English tuition class can be helpful, parents also have a significant role in enhancing their child’s communication skills. Read on to discover more.

Tip #1: Reinforce active listening

Communication is a two-way street, and active listening is an important aspect of effective communication. It involves hearing what someone is saying and understanding and reflecting on the content. It is not enough to listen to respond; true active listening requires deciphering and comprehending the message.

To practice active listening with your child at home, you can try this simple exercise often used by our teachers during our primary English tuition classes. Ask your child to read aloud a passage from their favourite book and then engage in a discussion about the content. Encourage them to think about what the author is trying to convey and whether the passage reflects the character’s emotions or thoughts. Address any questions or uncertainties your child may have to ensure they fully understand the intended message of the text. 

Tip #2: Talk regularly with your child

Children who have difficulty communicating may eventually develop a dislike for talking altogether. As your child’s role model, it is essential to encourage them to initiate or join in conversations as much as possible. They will become more comfortable and open up by engaging in conversations with others.

You can start conversations anywhere and anytime, demonstrating to your child how to make conversations relevant to their surroundings. For example, during a car ride, you can talk about where you are heading or discuss your favourite aspects of a TV programme during a commercial break.

Modelling phrases that your child can use as conversation starters is also helpful. For instance, you can teach them to ask, “How was your day?” and follow up with relevant questions like, “What did you learn during your English tuition class today?” This encourages them to describe their day in detail and helps with recall and sequencing, which are skills that children struggling with communication may find challenging.

Additionally, you can share details about your day, such as how your grocery shopping went, and ask questions encouraging their participation, like “Guess what I saw in the fruit aisle of the supermarket today?” This is an excellent way of demonstrating how to continue a conversation.

Tip #3: Encourage your child to read

Besides enrolling your child in English tuition, reading is another effective way to expand your child’s vocabulary, which is crucial for developing strong communication skills in speaking and writing. Once your child finishes a book, you can initiate a conversation with them and encourage them to talk about the story’s setting, plot, characters, and any unfamiliar words they encountered in the story. 

Learn More: Get Your Child’s Development On The Right Track With Phonics Classes

Tip #4: Listening to music

Listening to music and singing along is often recommended as a great way to learn a new language. It helps with understanding language structure and improving comprehension, pronunciation, and vocabulary. Learning English through music is especially effective for enhancing verbal communication skills.

Music is an excellent tool for helping children learn the concept of listening and responding. Children can improve their communication abilities by studying song lyrics and understanding how words are used to convey emotions and messages. Learning becomes more enjoyable when it’s fun!

If your child struggles with oral communication, there’s no need to worry. With practice, patience, and proper guidance, your child can improve their speaking skills and gain confidence in their abilities.

However, if you feel your child could benefit from additional support, consider enrolling them in our English tuition classes for Primary 1 to 6 students. At The Eton Academy by EtonHouse, our curriculum aligns closely with the MOE syllabus, ensuring that our lessons complement and strengthen your child’s learning. Contact us today to enquire about our tuition programmes.