Fear

Hi there. My name is Fear. Sometimes I visit when you are about to do something new or when you hear a loud noise. I can make your heart beat fast like a drum and give you wiggly feelings in your tummy. I am the feeling you get when something seems a little bit scary.

I might show up on your first day of school when you have to say goodbye to a grown-up. You might feel me when a big dog barks loudly or when the room gets dark at bedtime. These are moments when things feel uncertain, and that’s when I come to visit. It’s okay to feel me.

When I am with you, you can do brave things. You can take a big, slow breath, like you're smelling a flower and blowing out a candle. You can hold a grown-up's hand very tight, or you can talk about me. Saying, 'I feel scared,' helps me get smaller and makes you feel stronger.

My most important job is to help keep you safe. I am the feeling that tells you to hold hands when you cross the street and to be careful around things that are hot. I am not here to be mean. I am here to be your helper and look out for you. I help you be careful and brave.

I am always here to help you learn. Every time I visit, you learn a little more about being brave and careful. Knowing when I am around helps you grow bigger and stronger inside.