This month, during 4th graders Developmental Guidance lesson, classes viewed a program called When Things Seem Scary: Fears and Anxieties.
This program is designed to help children cope with the cascade of unpleasant feelings that fear and anxiety can evoke, whether from real or imagined causes. Its goal is not only to help students recognize that such feelings are natural and normal, but also to give them effective strategies for dealing with their fears and anxieties. The video explained that:
• fear may be an uncomfortable feeling, but it can be a very healthy feeling when it warns you about a dangerous situation.
• on the other hand, fear can be an unhealthy feeling if you overreact when something scary happens.
• the most effective way to deal with fear is to admit you’re scared, try to understand why you’re scared, and then decide to do something about it.
• anxiety can best be handled by replacing negative worries with positive thoughts.
• when disturbing events happen, there are protections in place to keep people safe.
• talking to someone you trust when you’re scared can help you handle the times when things seem scary.
Engage your child in talking about his or her fears by creating openings for discussion. Take such fears seriously—children need to feel safe and secure, and your words and actions can provide reassurance. Here are two books to consult to help you manage your child’s fears and anxieties:
Goldstein, Sam, Ph.D., et al. Seven Steps to Help Your Child Worry Less. Specialty Press, 2003.
I recommend :
"What To Do When You Worry Too Much"
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