Part of parenting is learning—both about your child and yourself. As your child grows, you’ll begin to see challenges they face that you weren’t anticipating, and you’ll wonder how to help them. One thing that you may be facing now but hadn’t fully anticipated is fears. Fears are prevalent in essentially everyone, including children. Some kids are scared of seemingly small things, but the fears are still fears. So, consider some common fears your children might have and learn ways to help your children manage those fears.
Fear of the Dark
One thing many children are afraid of is the dark. While this may seem to you like an irrational fear, the fear is very real to your children. So, consider some ways to help your children manage that fear. For example, instead of ignoring the fear, acknowledge it. Show empathy toward your child and ask what about the dark is scaring them. Another great thing to do is give them some sort of safety object like a stuffed animal. This small gesture can help your child feel more safe and secure.
Fear of the Doctor or Dentist
Another common fear in children is visiting the doctor or dentist. Doctor and Dentist offices can be big, unfamiliar, and intimidating to a child, not to mention that they have to sit uncomfortably still while at the office. So, help your child overcome the fear. Take them to the doctor and dentist young so they can start to become familiar with said locations. Additionally, read books about doctors and dentists. Having more knowledge about what these professionals do can help your children be more comfortable. Regarding dentists, consider taking your child to a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists use fear management techniques to offer the best care to children. These small adjustments can successfully help your children manage their fear of the doctor or dentist.
Fear of Being Alone
Lastly, many children experience the fear of being left alone. That doesn’t necessarily mean being left alone at home, but even being left alone in a room to sleep at night or playing in a room by himself or herself. To help your children overcome these fears, reassure them that they’re safe. Like with the dark, acknowledge the fear and show empathy. If your child doesn’t want to sleep alone, ease them into it. Stay in the room with them for a little bit while they’re falling asleep. The next night, stay there for a shorter time, and the next night even shorter. These little tricks will help your children begin to feel more comfortable alone.
Kids are an amazing wonder. It’s incredible to watch them as they learn and grow. This process can also teach you a great deal about yourself. As your kids grow, they also begin to develop fears. So, help them get through those fears. Acknowledge the fears, show empathy, give them tools to help them feel safe or to help them cope, and reassure them that you love them and are there to help them.
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