How to Deal with Your Child's Halloween Phobia

Kids and Halloween phobias is just a fact of life; this is especially so for the smaller children. So, how do you deal with your child's Halloween phobia? Although this greatly depends on the individual child and the phobia, there are several things that you as the parent can do to help your child overcome their Halloween fears.

Talk to your child about his or her Halloween phobia. This may clue you in as to what may have caused it, how to prevent it in the future, and how to deal with it now. No matter how far fetched it may sound, do not laugh or poke fun at the child.

Try to help the child rationalize his or her fears. Sometimes, it helps to discuss the phobia in what if terms. This may help the child gain a better perspective of their particular Halloween phobia.

Face the fear together. This is really great for the small children. Create a plan for what he or she and you will do when faced with what frightens them. Often, this helps the child to feel brave and can help overcome their fear in part.

Help the child find some type of humor from whatever it is they are afraid of. For example, a phobia of a certain type of character or villain can be turned around. Make fun of the monster and say that they scare people because they are scared. I found this tactic useful for my own preschooler.

Show your child that Halloween characters and other items are not real. Consider going to a costume shop, or watching a television program about it. However, smaller children may not give into this notion so quickly.

Let the child become what they are afraid of. It may be helpful for some kids with Halloween phobias to dress up as what they are afraid of. This helps them to realize the concept that it is just make belief.

Create a code or system for when your child becomes scared. Arm them with a special necklace, or any other item that "will protect them". Think of it as a security blanket.

Do not let the child with a Halloween phobia watch any of horror flicks that may further instill fear. Tune in to the kiddie channel. There are several programs to choose from that offer Halloween themed shows for younger kids.

If the fear of several Halloween themes persist, do make alternate plans on Halloween. Small children can and will become terrified when trick or treating. Consider taking them to an age appropriate party or let them pass candy.

Make sure that no one is intentionally scaring your child. Older siblings, classmates, and peers taunting can add to your child's distress. Scaring the child will only make the phobia worse.

These are just a few of the ways that you can cope with a child's Halloween phobias. Keep in mind, this won't last forever. Eventually, the child will have overcome their fears and will be a happy trick or treater.