How to help your child face scary situations
Your child will most likely outgrow their fears. Meanwhile, there are a few ways you can help them manage their fears more effectively.
Does your child hide behind the couch during a thunderstorm? Are they afraid to go to sleep because there are monsters lurking under their bed? Do they shiver at the thought of a lonesome spider nesting on the shower curtain?
We all get scared sometimes but fears are an unavoidable aspect of growing up. Teaching children how to control their own childhood fears fosters confidence and independence. So, how can we encourage children to become less scared and more courageous? Do you give them a hug? Do you allow them to cry it out? There is so much contradicting advice available!
Try these tried-and-true strategies the next time you have to deal with a frightened or fearful child.
Be there for your child
Many children will be soothed by your presence. Hug them or sit on their lap. Even holding their hand can help them feel secure and comfortable.
Encourage your child to get moving
During times of severe stress, physical activity can be relaxing. Running, cartwheeling, or playing a game that requires gross motor motions can help distract children from their anxiety or dread.
Don’t put off activities
When children avoid circumstances that make them fearful or uncomfortable, their anxieties do not go away. Try introducing them to activities that make them nervous gradually. You don’t want to put too much pressure on them at once because it can take a long time for them to overcome a fear. Set up a playdate at home, for example, if your child has difficulty playing with other children at school, so they may focus on feeling comfortable with one child before being surrounded by all of their friends on the playground. You can reduce their fear and equip them to cope on their own as they get older by gradually assisting them in adapting.
Talk about it
It is critical for children to be able to express their emotions. Give them some one-on-one time and listen to them without criticising or dismissing their concerns. The greatest time to talk about it is when they are calm since they can listen to you more easily.
Don’t be overly reassuring
Telling your child that “all will be fine” may actually reaffirm to him or her that there is something to be concerned about. While it may be difficult to resist the want to reassure your youngster that everything will be fine, it may be preferable in the long run.
Allow your child to express their feelings
If your child is having difficulty expressing why they are nervous, there are various ways to begin the dialogue. Ask them to create a picture or use a doll, puppet, or stuffed animal to play out what they are scared of.
Be patient
It might be difficult and stressful for parents to not know how to help their children, but don’t let those feelings show. Your child is aware of how you are feeling. Explicitly expressing your feelings may make your child feel as if they have offended you, increase their uneasiness, and make communication more difficult. To make your child feel calmer, try to give a good example of how to react quietly.
Show empathy and compassion
Even if you think what they’re frightened of is ridiculous, it’s crucial to show your child that you understand. Although they have nothing to be afraid of, the feelings they are experiencing are quite real.
When to seek professional help
Most fears are a normal and natural aspect of growing up. However, if a child is constantly fearful, or if their anxieties prevent them from having fun or interfere with their everyday life, this could be a sign of anxiety, and it may be time to seek professional assistance.
