“When fears are present, many parents try to be reassuring, telling their children not to be afraid. But for inexplicable reasons, a child may actually need to be afraid. It may be more helpful to say, (1/2)

“There aren’t any real tigers out there, but I understand you’re scared, and I’ll be here to keep you safe.” With reassurance like that, a child may feel strong enough to think about the “tiger” and eventually tame it.” (2/2)