How Do I Get My Son to Not Be Afraid of Bugs?
Some little boys are endlessly fascinated by bugs and want to look at them and play with them, even when they shouldn't. Other boys though, develop a fear of bugs. In small doses, that fear is normal, as some people experience a natural mild fear or revulsion when confronted with certain bugs, like spiders. However, if that fear starts to prevent your son from living a normal life, such as making him afraid to go outside and play with his friends because of the insects, then it's time to step in.
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Instructions
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Talk to your son about his fear of bugs. Ask questions about what he is afraid of specifically, such as getting bitten or stung, or if it is just the insects in general that he fears. Find out if he is more afraid of some bugs than others.
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Help your son avoid bugs when reasonable to do so, especially if he is too young to learn about bugs and to try and overcome a fear. He may outgrow the fear naturally. Let toddler's be afraid, but if your son gets older and the fear still inhibits him, it is time to try and help him overcome the fear.
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Educate your son about bugs. Your child's fears are probably mostly about things he doesn't fully understand, and understanding can help mute those fears. Get some books on insects and look at pictures of the various bugs he is afraid of and talk about the important functions those bugs serve. Take the time to explain that bugs are an important part of nature and how most bugs are more interested in doing their own thing than they are in biting or even caring about people.
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Avoid protecting your son from bugs at all costs at all times. Over-protection is not healthy for children. This strategy doesn't help prepare kids for real life which often requires the facing of fears.
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Expose your son to bugs in very short bursts to to help him overcome his fear. Don't force the issue to the point where you cause a panic in your son. Go outside and point out a few harmless insects, then go back inside. Visit the zoo, and include a short visit to an insect exhibit. Short exposures that you build up over time will help the object of your son's fear become commonplace and less worthy of a fearful reaction.
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Tips & Warnings
If your son exhibits extreme symptoms when faced with his fears, such as a panic attack, shortness of breath or hysteria, and if the problem does not alleviate over time, discuss the problem with your family doctor. He may be able to suggest further resources to help you deal with your son's intense fear.
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