What Should I Do When My Kids Are Scared?

Kids’ fears grow up with them. Babies fear loud noises and separation, young kids battle monsters in the dark, and older kids worry about fitting in at school. In this episode of the All Pro Dad Podcast, host Ted Lowe is joined by BJ Foster and Bobby Lewis to talk about our kids’ fears and how dads can help guide them through it all.   Why This Matters When kids are afraid, they need help processing their feelings. Key Takeaways ·      Fear and worry are different: Fear is a present problem while worry is a future problem.  ·      Bullying is #1: Pew Research conducted between 2020–25 showed virtually all kids fear being bullied. ·      Failure is terrifying: As kids age, the idea they won’t succeed becomes a major fear for many kids. Practical Tips for Dads When your kids are fearful, try these action steps: 1. Acknowledge Their Fear. 2. Ask Why This Scares Them. 3. Consider Your Words. Important Episode Timestamps 00:00 – 02:33 | Childhood Fears That Stick With Us 02:33 – 05:36 | Fear of Losing Parents as a Kid 05:36 – 07:11 | Common Fears Kids Have Today 07:11 – 09:01 | When Childhood Fear Turns Serious 09:01 – 11:54 | Fear vs. Courage: What Dads Should Teach Kids 11:54 – 13:36 | How Fear of Failure Starts Early 13:36 – 15:32 | How to Talk to Kids About Fear 15:32 – 17:20 | How Parents Accidentally Create Anxiety 17:20 – 21:22 | Why Overprotecting Kids Backfires 21:22 – End | Helping Kids Build Courage and Resilience APD Pro Move: The next time your kids say they’re afraid, tell them about a time you were afraid. Tell them how you showed bravery in the moment and encourage them to do the same. All Pro Dad Resources Episode 2: How Can I Help My Anxious Kid? 4 Responses That Turn Scared Kids Into Brave Kids 5 Ways to Raise A Son Who’ll Overcome His Fears 5 Fears We Pass On To Our Kids The 9 Most Common Childhood Fears Explained We love feedback, but can't reply without your email address. Message us your thoughts and contact info! Connect with Us: Ted Lowe on LinkedIn Bobby Lewis on LinkedIn BJ Foster on LinkedIn Subscribe on Apple Podcasts Get All Pro Dad merch! EXTRAS: Follow us: Instagram | Facebook | X (Twitter) Join 200,000+ other dads by subscribing to the All Pro Dad Play of the Day. Get daily fatherhood ideas, insight, and inspiration straight to your inbox. This episode's blog can also be viewed here on AllProDad.com. Like the All Pro Dad gear and mugs? Get your own in the All Pro Dad store. Get great content for moms at iMOM.com