How to Deal with Childhood Fears

Dealing with childhood fears can be frustrating for both the parents and the child. Typically, these fears fall into two categories for children between the ages of 8 to 14 months--separation anxiety and stranger anxiety. These fears emerge because of the fight for independence and growth.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Understand that all children become fearful during the preschool ages of 8 months to 4 years. It is a development stage they have to go through.

2. Realize that nightmares can start at about this age. They are scary dreams, which frighten children. They can reflect an emotional struggle that took place during the day. It is not clear at what age nightmares begin, but as memory increases during the second year, children will wake up feeling genuinely afraid. They cannot be convinced that the dream was not real, but they can be made to feel secure if you hold them.

3. Help children feel secure and lessen fears with routines. Children learn through patterns. Routines lessen confusion and help children predict and organize time and to prepare to change from one activity to another. Routines help children expect what is to come next. They may need a favorite blanket, pacifier or stuffed animal to help them feel secure at times of change.

4. Know that fear of unfamiliar people is called stranger anxiety. It shows that the child has a special awareness of who his parents are and the security his parents represent. Stranger anxiety surfaces in infancy and become most intense around the first birthday, gradually diminishing by the age of 3.

5. Give children time to warm up to new people. Never force children to interact when they are feeling anxious. Changing daycares at this time can be quite difficult for the child. If it is necessary, take the time to go to the daycare with your child spending some time together. Also, when unfamiliar people are present, hold your baby until they feel comfortable. Show respect to your child's desires to be close or clingy and give them time to warm up.

6. Recognize that separation anxiety is what a child may feel and experience when parents temporarily leave their presence. They may become fearful when they are separated from their parents or are in a strange or unfamiliar place.

7. Allow your child to adjust mentally and physically before leaving them. It is also important for you to let your children know that you are leaving. It is never a good idea to sneak out, since it is very important to maintain trust. Always say goodbye in a short but loving way.

Resources

• Health wise
• Conquer childhood anxiety