Many adults admit they’re terrified of speaking in front of an audience. So, it’s no surprise that children too often feel nervous when asked to speak up in class, give a presentation, or participate in a debate. The fear of public speaking usually comes from self-doubt, fear of judgment, or simply lack of practice. But here’s the good news, with the right guidance, children can learn to express themselves confidently.
At Sandhya Bajaj Academy, we believe communication is a life skill, not just an activity. Public speaking helps children build confidence, develop leadership qualities, and communicate effectively in every sphere of life.
Let’s look at some simple yet powerful ways to help your child overcome this fear.
- Normalize the Nerves
Tell your child it’s perfectly normal to feel butterflies before speaking. Even great speakers and performers feel nervous, the trick is to turn that nervous energy into excitement. Reassure them that the goal is progress, not perfection.
- Start Small and Safe
Don’t push your child straight onto a big stage. Begin with:
- Speaking in front of family members.
- Sharing a story with friends.
- Reading aloud during family time. These smaller, safe settings slowly build their confidence.
- Practice, Practice, Practice
Confidence comes from preparation. Encourage your child to:
- Rehearse their speech in front of a mirror.
- Record themselves and listen back.
- Break down big speeches into smaller parts. The more familiar they are with their content, the less anxious they’ll feel.
- Focus on the Message, Not the Mistakes
Children often fear “What if I forget my lines?” Teach them that it’s okay to pause, smile, and continue. The audience cares more about their message than small mistakes. Remind them even professionals make errors and carry on.
- Encourage Strong Body Language
A confident posture sends a message before words are spoken. Teach your child to:
- Stand tall with shoulders back.
- Make eye contact.
- Use hand gestures naturally.
- Smile often.
- Celebrate Every Effort
Every attempt matters, whether it’s speaking up in class or introducing themselves to a new friend. Applaud their effort, not just the outcome. This encouragement helps them associate public speaking with positivity rather than fear.
✨ Final Thought from Sandhya Bajaj
Public speaking is not just about standing on a stage, it’s about having the courage to express oneself with clarity and confidence. With the right guidance, every child can transform fear into strength and hesitation into eloquence.
At Sandhya Bajaj Academy, we help children build confidence step by step through our Personality Development Program and our Reading Club, where they practice communication in a safe, supportive environment.
👉 Enrol your child in our Personality Development Program to nurture their self-expression.
👉 Or, let them explore the joy of books and discussions in our Reading Club, because confident readers become confident speakers.
