Make use of siblings/cousins/aunts/uncles
Sometimes talking to a brother, sister or cousin is all a kid needs to know that it is pretty normal how they are feeling. And if their cool brother or aunt was able to be brave, then maybe they can be too! Just be very clear to the family member beforehand what your objective of the conversation should be.
Find a solution together
When kids get a little older, you can actually have pretty good conversations about fear - pick a moment when they are relaxed and NOT upset.
Then just casually bring it up - ask them when or how THEY think it started. Where it came from and what they think could help them not to be so scared.
You will be amazed how much just talking about it will already help!
Be prepared to LISTEN - ask open questions so they have to talk.
Don’t ‘fear-dump’ them
In previous generations especially, fear was mainly dealt with by making kids experience it MORE so they would ‘get used to it’. Think throwing your child with a fear of water, into the pool. The ideas is that you scare them into knowing it is not scary… Or scaring them in the dark when they are terrified to sleep without a night light.
Personally I have not heard of a single situation that ‘helped’ the kid get ‘over it’. It either creates a bigger fear, creates mistrust OR doesn’t do anything at all.
Be an example
Do you have a fear of something?
How about you ask them to help you get over that too? The empowerment and the example you will give them will be motivation for them to try too.
LOTS of cuddles
Nothing - absolutely nothing can beat a parent’s warm and comforting hug!
DISCLAIMER
I am not a child psychologist or therapist
This was written from a mum’s experience - feel free to ignore.