For parents of young learners
My child is afraid to ask questions in class
Many children sit quietly in class even when they are confused. They worry the question is silly, that classmates will laugh, or that the teacher will be annoyed. Asking questions is a speaking skill, and it can be practised at home. Here are 8 ways to help and 10 phrases your child can use.
By the Eloqova team · Updated 10 November 2026
Free printable kit for your child's class: speaking worksheets and a speech planner.Get it freeQuestions are a strength: Tell your child that asking a question shows they are thinking, and that other children often have the same doubt.
Why children avoid asking questions
- They think the question is silly or too easy.
- They are afraid classmates will laugh.
- They don't know how to start the question.
- They worry about interrupting the teacher.
- They have been told off for talking in class before.
8 ways to help at home
- Welcome every question at home, even the odd ones.
- Ask your child to bring one question home from school each day and talk about it.
- Practise asking questions through role play, with you as the teacher.
- Teach a polite way to get attention: raise a hand and wait.
- Suggest asking after class or during a break if speaking in front of everyone feels hard.
- Share a time you asked a question and it helped you.
- Praise the asking, not just the answer: "Good question!"
- Tell the class teacher, so they can gently invite your child to ask.
10 phrases to ask a teacher for help
| Situation | Phrase |
|---|---|
| Didn't understand | Excuse me, ma'am, could you explain that again, please? |
| Missed a word | Sorry, could you repeat the last line? |
| Needs an example | Could you give one more example, please? |
| Checking an answer | Is this the right way to do it? |
| Unsure of homework | Which pages do we have to do for homework? |
| Didn't see the board | Could I come closer to see the board, please? |
| Needs more time | Could I have one more minute to finish? |
| Asking after class | Sir, could I ask you something about today's lesson? |
| Meaning of a word | What does this word mean? |
| Thanking | Thank you, I understand it now. |
How to practise at home
- Practise 2 phrases a week through role play.
- Each evening, ask: "What question did you ask today?"
- Play a game where your child asks you 5 questions about any topic.
- Celebrate the first time your child asks a question in class.
Questions parents ask
Why is my child afraid to ask questions in class?
Most children worry their question is silly or that classmates will laugh. Some simply don't know how to start. Practising simple phrases at home helps.
How can I encourage my child to ask questions?
Welcome questions at home, role play asking a teacher, praise the asking and let your child start by asking after class.
Should I tell the teacher my child is shy to ask?
Yes. A teacher who knows can gently invite your child to ask, which makes the first few times much easier.
More free guides
- My child doesn't speak in class
- Teach your child to talk to adults
- WH questions for kids
- My child is shy
Want expert help? See our communication skills classes for kids: live 1:1 online classes for UKG to Grade 8.