How can I prepare my child for feeling nervous about public speaking? 

Parenting Perspective 

Normalise Nervousness 

Speaking in front of the class or an audience can be a terrifying prospect for many children, no matter how confident they seem at home. If this worry is not handled gently, it can grow into a fear that holds them back from sharing their ideas and using their voice. Start by telling your child that feeling nervous before speaking is completely normal; even adults feel butterflies in their stomach before giving a talk. Use simple words: ‘Feeling nervous just means you care. We can practise together so you feel braver each time.’ 

Prepare in Small Steps 

Help your child to prepare in small, manageable steps. If they have to give a presentation, practise it at home in front of you or a favourite toy. Teach them to take deep breaths, pause, and look for friendly faces in the room. Let them write down key words to help them remember what to say. Remind them that mistakes do not ruin everything; people are understanding when we slip up. Praise your child for every tiny act of courage, such as raising their hand to answer a question or reading a part of a story aloud. Over time, these small steps will build their confidence to speak up with calmness, even when they feel the worry inside. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam honours speech that is thoughtful and good. When your child feels nervous about speaking in public, remind them that Allah Almighty knows their fear and will help them when they turn to Him with trust. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Taha (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. ‘

Share this beautiful Dua with your child and explain how Prophet Musa (AS) asked Allah Almighty for help to speak clearly and bravely. 

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

‘Dua is worship. ‘

Encourage your child to make a simple prayer before standing up to speak: ‘Ya Allah, help me speak well and stay calm.’ Let them know that bravery is not the absence of fear, but doing the right thing even when we feel scared. With your gentle guidance, your child will see that using their voice with honesty and care is a gift, and every word they speak with courage and trust brings them closer to Allah Almighty’s love and support.