Class participation plays a role in personal and social development, creates a sense of belonging in children, and boosts self-confidence. However, shy children may have difficulty speaking up. Fortunately, you can encourage your child to participate in elementary school in a number of ways.

How to Help Your Child Participate at Elementary School

1. Role Play

The root of the problem isn’t always apparent, but you may be able to pinpoint it if you recreate the classroom at home. Take turns in student and teacher roles at home. When your child is the student, they may feel more comfortable asking and answering questions with you as their teacher. When they’re the teacher, they may gain a different perspective on their reluctance to participate when they understand the teacher only wants to help. Invite other family members to pose as students as well, and gradually, your child will feel more confident in the pretend situation, which will help when they’re in school.

2. Encourage New Subjects & Activities

Some children don’t participate because they’re bored. Find out what your child is most interested in, and encourage them to speak up during those class sessions, whether it’s art, language arts, or physical education. Participating will then become second nature and translate into other courses.

3. Keep an Open Dialogue

Not participating in class may be your child’s response to their poor academic performance. Speak with their teacher and review their tests and homework. They may need tutoring to better grasp concepts and build the confidence to participate. If they’re afraid, you’ll need to strategize with their teacher on how to set up a more comfortable learning environment for them at their elementary school. Also, speak with them about their problems, and let them know you’re there to help.

If you’re looking for an engaging learning environment for your child, enroll them at Hawaii Baptist Academy. Located in Honolulu, HI, since 1949, this faith-based private school provides a comprehensive curriculum focusing on spiritual, social, and educational needs. They provide smaller, more personalized classroom environments, and a variety of extracurricular courses and clubs to address every child’s interests. Visit their website to learn more about their academics. Call (808) 536-6830 for elementary school admissions and (808) 595-7585 for the middle school or high school programs.