Small children can be frightened by many things: thunderstorms, barking dogs, enclosed spaces, darkness.
Many children are afraid of strangers.
What should parents of a frightened child do?
Firstly, mom and dad should not criticize their child for showing emotions.
You will definitely understand your son or daughter if you remember yourself at his/her age. Treat your child's fear with understanding.
Secondly, you need to hug the child: show that you are there and ready to provide moral support.
But you definitely shouldn’t say the phrases listed below.
"Don't be afraid! It's nothing!"
Don't discount your child's emotions.
If you do mention a “trivial” reason for fear, the child may develop a feeling of guilt: “I’m a coward,” “I’m afraid of nonsense,” “I’m worrying mom and dad over trifles,” etc.
“But Dima, unlike you, wasn’t scared!”
Never use as an example a child who you think demonstrated correct behavior in a difficult moment.
If you still make this mistake, your son or daughter may develop complexes: “I am worse than others.”
"Oh, look! There was a beautiful bird flying by!"
Don't try to distract a frightened baby.
Yes, there may be an effect. But it will probably be short-lived.
Remember: there is no point in "drowning out" fear. It must be overcome.
