Childhood Fears

It is common for children to have a variety of different fears at different times of their childhood but dealing with those as a parent can be difficult.  First we experienced Jaret's night terrors which lasted for weeks on end.  However, those night terrors are almost none existent now which we are so grateful for.  With Kirra, we are dealing with a new fear that has her having difficulty falling asleep at night.  She is scared of bad guys breaking into the house and harming us.  At night this fear becomes more difficult to deal with as she is scared to go to sleep on her own.  Part of me wonders if this is a real fear or if she is using it as an excuse.  However, the teacher in me is then reminded that fear and anxiety is very real and becoming more prevalent in our children today.

I would likely classify this as more of anxiety than fear.  Fear is in response to a situation that is real and has happened whereas anxiety is being worried or scared over something that has not happened. When Kirra is facing these anxious moments, we try to affirm her and be encouraging while reminding her that she is safe (the doors are locked, Mommy and Daddy are here).  I don't want to get in the habit of bedtime tucks at night taking all evening but for a time see the importance of spending time with her until she is asleep or being near her while she drifts to sleep (I have sat outside her door and chatted on the phone and my presence comforts and relaxes her).

The other night as I was kissing Kirra good night before I went to bed.  I stopped to give her a cuddle and pray over her.  She nuzzled in to me and then whispered, "I love you, Mama.  You are the best Mom in the whole wide world."  And my heart melted and I felt peace.  I know I may not always be the perfect Mom but to my little girl, I am the best mom and that is more than enough! And yes, I realize that sentiment may not be shared by her when she is a teenager, or a pre-teen even.  But it is her perspective now and I am so grateful to be the best mom I can be for her and know that she thinks I am.  I love you, forever, and ever, and always!

A quote I came across that shares the sentiments above:

Kirra singing, "Froggy in my Throaty"

I love her energy and pray that she will never lose her love for singing and dancing.

Good Night, Sweetheart!