Knowing What to Expect Can Help Children with Fears
Thoughts for the Week:
There are two ways that we can be
helpful to children when they face something new and difficult. The first is to
let them know what to expect. When children know ahead of time what's going to
happen -- and not happen -- they can prepare themselves for what's coming. They
can think about it and get used to their feelings about it.
The second way we can be helpful is
by encouraging children to play about these events -- both before and
afterwards. Playing can give children a sense of control over scary feelings.
-- Fred Rogers
Summary of the Week:
Mister Rogers goes to the clinic to get a shot.
When children see their "trusted television friend" managing through an immunization,
talking openly about their fears, and encouraging ways to play about medical
experiences, children are more likely to be able to find their own inner
strengths to help them manage such potentially scary experiences.
In the Neighborhood of Make-Believe, children can
identify with Daniel Tiger who feels neither brave nor strong when it starts
"snowing" cereal at his home. Young viewers can see how Daniel grows
stronger with the support of his caring neighbors. It's his bravery that
finally stops the snow. Like Daniel, children can often be brave but
don't know it.
