Each and every child has a voice. However, not all children are sure about themselves and want to use it in the presence of other people. Speaking in front of an audience is a strong life skill- one that develops confidence, clear thinking and leadership. Among the best things you can give your child is helping to become a competent speaker.
1. The earliest the better with small steps
Home is where confidence starts. The first step to begin with is to teach your child to speak loudly and share their thoughts when having conversations within the family. Allow them to describe their day or read aloud or even describe short stories at the dinner table. These simple tasks will result in the development of comfort speaking to a crowd, without any pressure or judgement.
2. Be a Good Listener
It is necessary to encourage children, not criticize them. Listening to them is good when they talk. Do not correct each word or rather interfere. Simply smile, nod and show interest. Their comfort is possible during the interaction only when you make them feel safe and respected, which is the basis of confidence.
3. Praise Effort, Not Just Performance
It is also important to commend the hard work rather than reward performance only.Let your child give his/her two minute speech or just half way through, at least applaud the attempt.
Exalt the endeavour. The thing that is more important than “You did it perfectly,” is to say, “I am so proud of the way you stood up.” It increases confidence when the effort of the children is known.
4. Kids Watch and Learn
Surround your child with good speakers. Show them speeches or debates or storytelling videos on the internet by kids. Ask about that which makes those speakers good, is it eye contact, tone or gestures. Children get a lot by observing people with whom they can associate themselves.
5. Promote Imaginary Game
Speaking can be developed through role-play which is enjoyable. Play the role of a teacher, new anchor or tell a story to the child. Make use of props, dress up, and imagination. It diminishes fears and helps develop creativity, also an essential component in confident speaking.
6. Structural, Not Word Help
Read also: Top 5 Benefits of Cardamom: Nature’s Sweet and Spicy Healer
When your child is writing a speech or a presentation, assist your child in putting their thoughts in order- beginning, middle and end. But do not write it out to them. Enough of their tongue and character. Such possession causes them to be in control and feel confident.
7. Instill Body Language & Voices Control
It is not about words that one is a good speech speaker, it is also about posture, body movements, and voice. Train your child how to stand tall, have your child look you in the eye and be able to talk freely. Nervousness like this could be reduced with breathing exercises and the control over voice.
8. Learn to have Turn-Mistakes into Lessons
When your child forgets a line or is nervous, assure him/her that it is nothing. Even the most competent of speakers err. Write a little about your own experience. This assists them in realizing that not making all the right choices is normal and something that should not be feared.
9. Chances to Talk
Recently, I have been motivated to attend school assemblies, to take part in storytelling competitions, or drama clubs. Even at home, you can organize your own “speech time” on weekends. Constant drilling, in low stress situations builds confidence.
10. Role Model it
Children are the reflection of their parents. Speak with confidence and talk freely and they will learn these habits by themselves. Be confident in being a part of a speech yourself so that your child would get an example of a good reason to practice.
Conclusion
Producing a confident speaker is not a one day job. It requires boasting, support and practice. All children are special-one might sprout earlier in life; another, later. They are not expected to become perfect speakers, yet we want them to develop the voice, and not be afraid to use it.
Trust them, nurture them through their ups and downs and applaud each tiny achievement. One day you will laugh when they talk with pride, not only to the crowd, but the entire world.