HOWTO HELPYOUR KIDS GET OVER THEIR FEAR OF THE DARK
For many kids, there’s nothing scarier than the unknown of a dark room. Luckily, there are ways to help your child overcome the terror they feel as soon as you turn out the light. You can chase the beasts away for good, just in time for the spooky Halloween season.
The first step to curing a child’s fear of the dark is to find out exactly what they’re afraid of. Ask your child what scares them, using open-ended questions. Don’t belittle or dismiss their specific fears. As trivial as it may seem to you, it’s all too real to your kid. A simple statement like “I can see you’re really scared” can go a long way. Then, you need to ensure your child feels safe in the dark. Spend some time with them after the lights are off, calmly reassuring them that they’re safe in their bedroom. Show that there’s nothing to be afraid of, whether by shining a light into the closet or taking a look under the bed — with the child looking too — to prove there’s nothing to worry about. Empower them to banish their fears
themselves. If they get frightened and run into your bedroom, escort them back to their own bed and help them relax. Their own bedroom must become a safe space. Only give your child healthy snacks before sending them to bed. Sugars and processed foods activate brain activity, putting your kid on high alert. Try vegetables, nuts, or string cheese. Of course, adding more light is always an option as well. Get a lamp with a dimmer that goes on their night stand or plug in a few fun night lights. Over the period of a few months, steadily decrease the amount of light in the room. Eventually, they’ll be fully acclimated.
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“I was very happy with the treatment I received at Hess Physical Therapy. The injury that occurred during my duty day as a police officer left me with severe left knee pain, and some days made it hard for me to walk. With the support, help, and effort of Jessica and the other members of the physical therapy staff, I am now
I was helped every visit by Amber (three days per week at first) and also by Dan on occasion. They both continuously pushed me during every PT session. I got better after only two weeks, and then I only had to come two times per week. Week by week, improvement increased, and very soon, I was back to gardening and other normal activities, like walking my dog, Rylie, and playing golf! I went from a cane to normal walking and exercising in several weeks thanks to Amber and Dan’s advice!” –Al End “I have been to Hess Physical Therapy for other problems in the past. I would not go anywhere else if I needed physical therapy. They are very professional and know how you feel to give you the best
able to perform at work with no pain. I have come to Hess Physical Therapy in the past and will always recommend them to others for great care and treatment from the staff. Thank you!” –Ryan Lawrence
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treatment possible. They truly care for their clients. I would recommend them to everyone who needs PT. Thank you, Sean and all your helpers, for working with me and getting me back
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