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Children can be scared of all sorts of things, real and imaginary.

The good news is, their fears usually go away gradually. But what should you do if your child is scared now? How can you help them feel better?

Our helpful video below shares some top tips to help you stay calm and matter of fact and help them deal with fear.

What sorts of things are children scared of?

It's common for preschool-age children to develop fears about things like animals, storms, water, monsters, heights and the dark.

Fears often go away gradually.

What are the signs my child is feeling afraid or anxious?

When young children feel anxious, they cannot always understand or express what they are feeling. You may notice that they:

  • Cry, become irritable, or clingy
  • Have difficulty sleeping
  • Wake in the night
  • Wet the bed
  • Have nightmares

Here's how to help your child with their fears

Young boy snuggles into his mother on the beach and looks worried. She tightly hugs him back and consoles him. Another woman sit beside them and watches, while also consoling him.
Image caption,
Your little one might be afraid of imaginary or magical things, or have big worries about real everyday things.

1. Reassure your child they are safe

  • Let them know you鈥檙e there for them and that they can always share their feelings with you.

  • Praise them for letting you know about what鈥檚 scaring them 鈥 this can help them to feel comfortable opening up to you.

2. Acknowledge their feelings

  • Show them that you understand what they鈥檙e feeling without laughing or dismissing them.

  • Stay calm and take on a matter-of-fact tone to help them feel all is well.

3. Help them learn the difference between real and imaginary and work through fears creatively

  • Talk with them about their fears.

  • Play and creative activities can help children to make sense of things.

  • Making up stories or drawing together is a great way to talk through their feelings and help them to express how they鈥檙e feeling.

Young boy snuggles into his mother on the beach and looks worried. She tightly hugs him back and consoles him. Another woman sit beside them and watches, while also consoling him.
Image caption,
Your little one might be afraid of imaginary or magical things, or have big worries about real everyday things.

Establishing a calming bedtime routine can help children who are scared of the dark. Check out our article on bedwetting if you've got any questions and are wondering whether to see your GP.

Created with help from child psychologist Dr Claire Halsey and child development researcher Dr Michelle Peter.

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