My child has a lot of fear
Before You Begin
Pause and breathe. Even if this shouldn't be happening... accept that it is and embrace it with composure and calmness.
Calmness is the only way forward because without calm, there is no possibility for receptiveness and connection. Your child won't give to you any more than they see from you.
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Never forget that a strong connection is fundamental, as there will be no correction in them if there is no connection with you.
The Core Problem
The are anticipating being a victim of what might come at them, and therefore don't feel safe.
What Will Make It Worse
Reacting with frustration and dismissing their fears will only continue to leave them ill-equipped to cope with this problem.
What The Child Needs
1. To be heard about what things they are presently fearful of.
2. To figure out what bad thing(s) happened in the past that makes them preoccupied with what could happen in the future.
3. To feel the safety and love of their family inside the house, and community outside of the house.
4. Help mentally equipping themselves with a plan should their more plausible fears actually occur.
How To Have The Conversation With Your Child
Find a private room where the child feels comfortable to talk without distractions.
Use empathy and active listening to better understand the root of their fears, and show that you genuinely care that this is troubling them deeply.
Avoid judgment and criticism during the conversation.
Even if it doesn't all happen at once, start acting on the provided items that the child needs.
Ideally, having them talk out their fears and helping them make a plan will ease their mind and allow them to shift their focus to positive thoughts, experiences and emotions.