In the first years of life, we are faced with a huge amount of the unknown. There can be an awful lot of things for children in the world they came to. Although not all experts will agree, children are likely to learn fears, like most other behaviors.
Just like little fears, such as spiders, dogs, and cars, children can "learn" phobias as well. Although discussing the possible gendered portability of phobias, there is a good chance that children, even when they are very young, observe parents who panic in a particular situation the thought of her being very dangerous and thus inheriting that behavior.
There is much that can scare a small creature into learning to deal with even the simplest of life situations. All children are afraid of something at some point in their development, and that is a normal part of growing up. If these fears persist, occupy the child completely, and if you cannot comfort or distract the child from the object of fear, it may be that he or she is suffering from a phobia.
Babies are mostly afraid of separation, noise, falling, animals and insects, bathing, and going to sleep. Some older children are also afraid of losing themselves, monsters, losing their parents and the like.
Fears are often heightened in times of stress. Some children are simply timider than others, which is part of their temperament or the effects of their upbringing. In any case, there are ways you need to deal with your child's fears, whatever they may be.
Respect children's feelings. Ignoring his or her fear, and especially belittling, can have the opposite effect. Do not ridicule your child. By doing this, you can make sure that it does not speak of your fear but does not relieve it.
Talk about what's bothering him. Let him tell you as many things as possible. This is especially useful if the fear triggered an isolated event because if you can recognize it, it will be easier to help your child get rid of it.
Don't let him simply avoid anything that scares him, but don't ever force him to face what is fearful. Do not pay too much attention when the child is scared, as this may intensify his or her reactions.
Support him in dealing with fears. Remind him of situations from the past when something was scared and overcame. Share some of your similar experiences.
- All babies suffer from fear of separation. To help your child make your departure easier, always announce that you are leaving. Stealing yourself will only reduce your confidence. Explain where you are going and how long you will stay and keep your promise whenever possible. Try to capture something before you leave. So they will pay less attention to your departure. Create a welcoming ritual, with lots of kissing and hugging, this can also make it easier for your child to take parting.
- For some children, bathing is quite terrible. They are frightened by water, bathtubs, and drains. Gradually get your baby used to play with a bowl of water, then in the sink, then in the tub. Buy his toys together and make it a fun activity.
- Many children have the worst fear of the dark. The younger are scared of monsters and the older are thieves. Do not make your child sleep in the dark if he or she is very afraid. Do a little ritual before bed to make your baby feel more secure. Open all the cabinets together, peek under the bed, make sure all the windows and doors are closed properly and that nothing and no one can enter or leave.
