Help Your Child Overcome Common Fears
Validating fears while gently expanding comfort zones helps children build courage.
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Example Prompt
My [AGE]-year-old is afraid of [FEAR - the dark/dogs/thunder/doctors/water/monsters/being alone]. The fear shows up as [BEHAVIORS]. Create a gradual exposure plan, what to say to validate without reinforcing, calming techniques for when fear strikes, and signs this fear needs professional support. Past approaches that haven't worked include [ATTEMPTS].
Pro Tip
Never force exposure or ridicule fears because shame increases anxiety rather than building courage.
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