Dealing with your child's fears

WHAT’S GOING ON?

Fear is a natural human emotion with a very important survival function. It is designed to alert us to protect ourselves when we are under threat. Ideally, fear keeps us appropriately cautious and out of harm's way. And when something does threaten our survival, we go into fight, flight, or freeze mode. These survival instincts benefited our ancestors and can still benefit us in a life threatening situation.

Childhood can be a particularly fearful time, as kids gradually become aware of the threats and uncertainties in the world, as well as their own vulnerability and dependence on others for survival.

Because children are so dependent on their caretakers, feeling a loss of connection with a parent or loss of belonging in their 'tribe', is actually the most terrifying sort of fear. While kids may express fears focused on home (their own or family members' mortality), school (academics or peers), or the outside world (natural disasters, news items), deep down they are usually about a fear that in some way, their relationships are not enough to take care of them and keep them safe.

When young mammals experience threats in the wild, their first instinct is to find their caretaker, or 'attachment figure', and humans are no different. Your warm connection is the best antidote to your child's fear.

How does this apply to your child?

Get info and tips specifically for your child’s grade. LOGIN below, or SIGN UP – 30 days free!

Welcome back!

Forgot your password?

What's YOUR parenting style? Find out!

Search Postcards

Get in touch.