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How Can We Help Children Build Confidence to Connect Globally?

Experts will offer insights into how to help children speak confidently, express themselves, and leave a lasting impression once they’ve mastered English, during a panel discussion airing on VnExpress on May 11.

Co-hosted by VnExpress and Apollo English, the program aims to give parents practical solutions and diverse perspectives under the theme “English Helps Kids Connect – Identity Makes Them Stand Out.” The live broadcast will run from 10:00 to 11:00 AM on Sunday, May 11.

The event will feature two keynote speakers. Ms. Kate Steenkamp, Academic Director at Apollo English, brings over 20 years of experience in children’s education and international assessment. She holds a Master’s degree in Education from the University of South Africa, with a focus on cognitive development and language acquisition in children.

Joining her is Associate Professor Dr. Trần Thành Nam, Dean of the Faculty of Educational Sciences at the University of Education – Vietnam National University, Hanoi. A leading expert in school psychology, he is also the head of the National School Counseling Program and has contributed extensively to educational research and policy development in Vietnam.

The panel will address questions many parents are asking: how to prepare children with strong language skills and the confidence to connect with the world. Rather than solely chasing standardized language benchmarks, many experts emphasize that character development and personal identity are equally critical.

In this discussion, titled “English Helps Kids Connect – Identity Makes Them Stand Out,” the speakers will explore three key areas surrounding language learning and global readiness in children.

First, they’ll examine the downsides of passive, goal-less English learning—particularly when it becomes a race for certificates—arguing that this can demotivate students and lead them away from long-term development. Second, the panel will highlight the crucial role that parents, teachers, and a supportive learning environment play in shaping children’s thinking and study habits. Finally, the experts will discuss how to help children build the confidence to communicate, share, and connect effectively in a globalized world—encouraging kids to be distinctive yet inclusive in how they present themselves.

At the opening of the session, the two experts will make the case that in today’s world, children need more than just strong English skills. They must also be able to think critically, communicate flexibly, and confidently express their individuality.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach in education, but there is one core principle: start with the learner’s identity,” said Ms. Kate.

Dr. Trần Thành Nam added, “The world needs unique individuals—not perfect copies. True confidence comes from knowing who you are. Recognizing and respecting differences is what empowers children to stand out, adapt, and leave their mark on the world.”

The program sends a powerful message: the more fluent children are in English, the more doors open for them to connect globally. But it is only when they are grounded in their own values and identity that they can make thoughtful choices, speak up in the right moments, and draw meaningful lessons from their schools, peers, and communities.

Alongside the two experts, the discussion will also include personal reflections from Ms. Liên Trịnh, a university lecturer and mother of child music prodigy Jayden Trịnh, who won third place in Vietnam Idol Kids 2016. She’ll share her journey of growing alongside her son—supporting his passion and nurturing his unique identity.

Commenting on the program’s theme, Ms. Liên noted, “The way parents view their children shapes what children believe about themselves. Kids don’t thrive through comparisons—they grow from knowing they are seen and accepted as they are.”

To close the session, the speakers will answer live questions from parents and viewers, creating an open, engaging space for real-time interaction.

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   / @vtp