Pulling It Together

The thread running through all of it:

• Fears fit the age: imagination outruns reality-testing in early childhood.
• Dismissal backfires: "nothing to fear" teaches kids their feelings are wrong.
• Validate, then collaborate: name the feeling, then ask what would help.
• Exposure builds courage: small steps give proof the fear is survivable.
• Know the line: fear that intensifies, lasts, or limits life may need a pro.