What's the problem if a 5 year old child does not like to speak up?

Question

He knows how to talk but he rarely does. He also counts slower than other children his age.

Is their anything to do to fix this?

Answer 1

It is very common for a five year old to be shy. For most it is their first real interaction in a classroom setting. For many it might be their first time in a classroom setting without their friends that they made in daycare/preschool. There is nothing wrong with being shy at this age or any age. Once he becomes more comfortable and confidentn not only in his self and susurroundingse will start to open up more and be more talkative.

Answer 2

well there's a few options.

first i suggest that you get his hearing and comprehension tested. especially if he has had ear infections as a baby.

secondly you could just make talking and counting fun. make up stories together. talk about each and everything that you are doing like when you are driving, shopping, getting him ready for bed, etc.

thirdly, if the other two don't show any signs of helping, get him checked out with a therapist. he may have a learning disability.

Answer 3

A lot of 5 year olds can be shy. Mostly because they aren't comfortable with the environment around them. Make him comfortable to be himself, and hopefully he will improve.  

Answer 4

Does he talk to you and his other family members?  How is his comprehension?  Encourage him to speak more but don' t make it a huge deal.  Also do not finish sentences for him.  Give him opportunities to speak in nonstressful situations.  If you still have concerns you should contact the school district and they will be able to determine if he might benefit from speech and language therapy.  

Answer 5

Its normal. When I was five, I also never wanted to go in front of people and guests. But with the passage of time, he will get over it. Remember, you should not try to compete him with other children around him. Every child has his/her own specialty. Try to let him play in an educational environment. In just play, try to teach him alphabets and numbers. Nothing really to worry about.

Answer 6

He could just be shy, but if it really worries you I would get him tested for hearing problems/ learning delays. My problem when I was that age was that I was simply very shy and nervous about making any mistakes. In that case, you attempting to "fix" his problem may make him talk even less.