How can I help my child talk to teachers when they feel anxious? 

Parenting Perspective 

Normalise Their Feelings 

It is very common for children to feel nervous about speaking to their teachers. They might worry about being judged, getting into trouble, or sounding silly. If they keep these worries bottled up, small problems can grow bigger in their minds. Start by reminding your child that teachers are there to help, not to scare them. Use simple words: ‘Your teacher wants you to learn and feel safe. It is okay to tell them when you feel worried.’ 

Practice and Role-Play 

Practise what they can say before school. Role-play using gentle phrases: ‘I feel nervous about this work. Can you help me?’ or ‘I do not understand this part. Could you explain it again?’ Some children feel braver writing their worry in a note to give to the teacher instead of saying it out loud. Praise any effort your child makes to speak up, even if it is a small one. Share stories about times when you asked for help and felt nervous but were glad you did. Let your child know that everyone, even grown-ups, sometimes feels shy about asking for support. Remind them that it is not rude to talk to a teacher about their feelings; it shows courage and honesty. Over time, your calm encouragement will build your child’s trust that asking for help at school is normal and nothing to fear. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam reminds us that seeking help when we feel anxious is a part of our trust in Allah Almighty. He knows what is in our hearts, even when we find it difficult to speak. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Taaha (20), Verse 25–28: 

‘(Prophet Musa (AS)) said: O my Sustainer, fortify my mind (with confidence of achieving the impossible); and make it easy for me (to accomplish) all of what You have commanded me; and untie the restriction (of stuttering) from my tongue. So that they may understand my speech.‘

Sharing this beautiful Dua with your child shows that even Prophet Musa (AS) asked for courage and ease when he felt anxious about speaking. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 3372, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Dua is worship.‘

Encourage your child to say a simple prayer before they talk to their teacher: ‘Ya Allah, help me speak bravely and clearly.’ This gentle habit reminds them that Allah Almighty is always with them, giving them the strength to speak up kindly. With your steady support, your child will learn that sharing their worries with teachers can make school feel safer and kinder, and that every small act of courage is rewarded by Allah Almighty.