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Development Topics
Overcoming Childhood Fears
Ways to Communicate
All of us have fears, many of which are centered on new experiences. As adults, we’ve developed coping mechanisms to aid us in dealing with fears and concerns. For our children, the world is full of new experiences. How can we help them over these hurdles?
Pray — Be sure to ask for God’s help and intervention in your child’s heart. Faith is the source of profound courage and peace.
Be There — Sometimes it’s important to say very little and just be present. Hugs are worth a thousand words.
Listen — Have you truly “heard” what your child is trying to communicate? Doing so may save him a great deal of tears and frustration. Children sometimes have a hard time identifying their fears or nervousness, much less verbalizing them.
Be Honest — Our children need to know that we have fears, too. This will help them feel less isolated and embarrassed. We then can share with them some of the ways we’ve learned to cope with our anxieties.
Be Observant — Are there contributing factors that may be adding to the fear your child is feeling? Is he hungry, tired or overscheduled? Often a simple snack or nap works wonders.
—Susan Ligon
Do you have thoughts, questions, advice on this topic? Post your stories and comments in the forum for other parents to respond to. Enter the forum now.
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