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What do you do When the Clowns aren't Funny anymore?

What Do You Do When the Clowns aren't Funny anymore? Tips and Techniques to help our children

ALWAYS

  • Validate. Let the child know she is heard. Repeat what you hear. For example, “Clowns can seem scary”.
  • Communicate. Have the child make a list of specific fears. Talk througheach and validate.
  • Prepare. Develop a safety plan. Empower the child to know what to do.
  • Draw. Have the child draw a clown. Draw her friends. Have her talk to you about her images.
  • Feelings. Ask the child to express how she feels. Listen. Validate.

NEVER

  • Minimize. Never say “Clowns will never hurt you”. A child’s fear is REAL. Validate.
  • Dismiss. Never say “Don’t worry.”
  • Ignore. Never pass over even small signs of worry, fear, and sadness.

SIGNS OF ANXIETY

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  • Agitation
  • Restlessness
  • Tearfulness
  • Loss of appetite
  • Night fears

When more help is needed, contact us at Psychological and Educational Consulting - 973 400 8371 or email DrLiz@psychedconsult.com

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