Getting Over a Fear of Animals

While it is the common assumption that all children love all animals, the reality is not quite so black and white. A child's first experience with a loud or angry dog can be a terrifying one, especially if the dog in question is much bigger than the tot.

In the unfortunate instance that your child's first experience with a dog is intimidating, it is important to sit down and talk to your little one.

• Be sure to first and foremost tell your little one that it is okay and they have not done anything wrong. We all love animals, but your child's well being is of primary importance so do not feel the need to continually expose your child to the creature.
• Expose your child to animals that are predisposed to being friendly. Periodic trips to the zoo or the pet store can be helpful. Bring them to an environment where animals are either docile or reared to be domesticated.
• Try to explain to your child that animals should be treated with respect and that they are not ‘play things' like depicted in cartoons.
• See if you can get them accustomed to watching educational programming aimed at young children to educate them about the world of animals.

By Chris Giardino