As a public speaking trainer and professional teacher, I have worked with thousands including children, youth, and adults, helping them find their voices and overcome the fear of speaking. But over the years, I’ve also noticed a troubling pattern, many parents unknowingly set their children up for future struggles by focusing on the wrong priorities when choosing schools.
I have seen parents go to great lengths to find the “best” schools schools with the highest academic scores, the fanciest facilities, and the most impressive reputations. They proudly say, “My child goes to the top school in the country!” But when their child is asked to introduce themselves in a gathering, they hide behind their parents, mumble, or simply look down.
This is where many parents get it wrong!
The Fancy School Trap
A child’s education is one of the greatest investments a parent can make. But is academic excellence enough? Many parents believe that enrolling their child in a top-tier school guarantees success. They check for:
- High exam scores
- Best infrastructure
- Prestigious school rankings
- Expensive school fees (thinking cost equals quality)
But how many parents ask:
❌ Does this school build my child’s confidence?
❌ Do they have public speaking or debate clubs?
❌ Are students trained to express themselves clearly?
❌ Do they focus on leadership skills alongside academics?
Many schools are business-oriented, focusing on pumping students for grades because high academic performance attracts more admissions and maximizes profits. They prepare children to pass exams, not to face life.
The Unnoticed Signs of a Silent Future
I once met a young man (operating a soft drinks kiosk) as interacted with him, his English fluence was outstanding. This prompted me to technically inquire about his academic career, he told me, he had completed from one of the best schools in the country. He had straight A’s and a degree from a top university. Yet, when he sat before an interview panel for his dream job, he couldn’t express his thoughts clearly. He stammered, avoided eye contact, and failed to answer basic questions with confidence. This happened to him on several trials until he gave up and ended in the kiosk.
Despite his academic brilliance, he lost many opportunities.
His story is not unique. I have met and trained many highly educated individuals struggling to present their ideas, lead discussions, or handle meetings. Why? Because no one ever trained them to speak with confidence.
Confidence and Public Speaking Are as Important as Sports and Academics
Parents encourage their children to excel in sports, music, and other co-curricular activities’ which is great! But how many parents ensure their child is also trained in self-expression and public speaking?
i. Sports build teamwork and discipline.
ii .Academics build knowledge.
iii. Public speaking builds confidence and leadership.
Yet, public speaking is often ignored until adulthood when people start struggling in university presentations, job interviews, or leadership roles.
🔹 A child who can speak confidently will stand out in any field.
🔹 A student who can express their thoughts clearly will be ahead of their peers.
🔹 A graduate who can persuade and articulate ideas will get better job opportunities.
Parents must start valuing confidence-building as much as they value grades and sports.
What Parents Should Do Differently
✔ Look for schools that nurture public speaking and leadership skills. A school’s excellence is not just in grades but in how well it prepares children for the real world.
✔ Encourage participation in debates, storytelling, and drama. These activities teach children how to think on their feet and communicate effectively.
✔ Train confidence at home. Ask your child to introduce themselves at social gatherings. Let them practice storytelling at family meetings. Confidence begins at home.
✔ Choose substance over status. A school may have a beautiful campus, high fees, and a big name, but if your child leaves without confidence, self-expression, and communication skills, have you truly given them the best education?
My final thought
Dear parents, as a teacher and a parent, it’s high time we realized that education is more than just grades. The best gift you can give your child in this generation is the ability to speak with confidence, lead with courage, and express themselves without fear.
Because in the real world, opportunities don’t always go to the most intelligent, they go to those who dare to speak. Should you need help in overcoming fear and nervousness, feel free to contact me for a customized program.
Would you choose a school that prioritizes confidence-building for your child? Let me know your thoughts!
[…] these strategies be your foundation. And when in doubt, revisit my latest post “speaking like a leader for more…
[…] Here is yet another transformative post you must not miss. Speaking Like a Leader: How to command and impact…
[…] teacher and public speech trainer, I have seen firsthand how parental involvement or lack thereof affects children’s academic performance…
[…] (For customised teacher sessions on confidence building, contact us) […]
[…] of my recent posts, “The Seven Things You Must Know About Public Speaking”, delves deeper into the mindset required…