How do I build my child’s confidence in public speaking? 

Parenting Perspective 

Starting with Small, Gentle Steps 

Public speaking can feel daunting for many children, especially those who learn at home and do not spend much time in large groups. Helping your child grow in confidence begins with small, gentle steps so they feel secure and ready. 

Practising at Home 

Start by practising at home with you or their siblings. Ask your child to read a short story aloud, share a mini talk about a hobby or explain something they learned that day. Praise not only how clear their words are but also their effort and courage. This helps them trust their own voice. 

Using Role-Play and Finding Opportunities 

Use simple role play to prepare for real life. Practise greeting people at the mosque, asking a question politely in a group or thanking someone with confidence. When you can, give your child small chances to speak in front of others at the mosque or community gatherings. It could be reading a short passage from the Quran or sharing a small fact about Islam. 

The Importance of Patience 

If your child is shy, be patient and never push them before they are ready. These gentle steps will build calm, steady confidence. In time, your child will learn to think, ‘I have something good to share,’ and carry that sense of ease into every new social moment. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam shows us that clear, honest speech is not only a life skill, but also part of good character. 

Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Al Ahzab (33), Verse 70: 

‘O you who have believed, fear Allah and speak words of appropriate justice. ‘

This Ayah reminds us that our words have power and must be spoken with care and truth. 

It is recorded in Sahih Bukhari, Hadith 6136, that holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day should speak good or remain silent.’ 

Share this with your child so they know that confidence in speaking comes from sincerity, not showing off. Make a simple Dua before they speak publicly: O Allah, make my speech clear and truthful. Tell them stories of how the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ spoke calmly, wisely, and never mocked others, even when addressing large crowds. Remind your child that good speech is not about being loud or dramatic, it is about sharing truth kindly, with humility. Celebrate their small moments of courage and show them that every time they stand up to speak with honesty and respect, they earn reward and grow into young Muslims who use their voice to spread goodness, InshaAllah.