Fear is something normal, since it is a physiological reaction that helps the body to face or avoid situations of danger, whether imminent or potential.
This sensation is experienced from the beginning of life and remains present throughout it, only that the factors that trigger it change and its intensity varies.
In young children, for example, fear is generated mainly in the absence of parents.
Later come the fear of darkness, strangers, imaginary beings and activities such as swimming or riding the rides. Then there is the fear of bad grades, not to be accepted socially, to diseases and to doctors.
It is important to talk with them, listen to what they have to say about it and not minimize the problem, since, although it may seem simple, for them it is something important that affects them.
Understanding is essential to avoid feeling embarrassed about being afraid. Never mock what frightens them or make them feel ridiculous. It is also necessary to transmit security and confidence, let them know that they have your support and strengthen their self-esteem.
According to their age and level of understanding, it is important to explain to them that there are things to be feared, such as clowns or sleeping with the light off, for example. For this, we must encourage them, little by little, to face the situation that gives them fear, so they can see that they can be safe and that nothing will happen.
If you are dealing with especially fearful children, avoid stories of ghosts, witches, or monsters, as well as activities, movies or books that may scare them, especially before going to sleep. When you see this type of content, accompany them and explain that they are fantasy stories and characters that do not exist in reality and that can not harm them.
Another aspect that you must take into account is not to foment your fears with your attitude. For example, if you fear insects and see that you also alter yourself before their presence, far from overcoming their fear, it will increase and worsen. So, keep calm before the situations that scare you, so that you are your role model in terms of strength and improvement.
If the fear has gone out of normal and has begun to affect your behavior and the way it develops, perhaps you should evaluate if it is necessary to resort to the professional help of a psychologist.
Some indicators are in the sudden changes of behavior, for example, if he becomes sullen and distrustful, if he does not want to sleep alone or if he returns to urinate in bed and suck his finger, when he had stopped doing it.
If you notice that these things happen and do not change, or if fear affects your daily life, it is time to consult a specialist to solve it.
