Apr 27, 2022
My guest this week is Dr. Dawn Huebner.
In this episode, we are welcoming back Dr. Dawn Huebner, and this time, we will be discussing how to help kids overcome specific fears and phobias. Most kids develop specific fears about something over the course of their childhood, but these fears tend to go away without requiring any kind of significant intervention. However, some kids get very stuck on specific fears, which can impact all parts of a child's life, and even a parents’ and a family's life. Clinically, we have seen an increase in specific fears and phobias, especially around health-related issues since the pandemic started. Sometimes, we as parents and caregivers can unintentionally make fears worse in kids too, but the good news is, there are strategies, resources, and effective research-backed ways to help kids through this.
Dr. Dawn Huebner is a psychologist, parent coach and the author of more than 10 books for children, including the perennial best sellers What to Do When You Worry Too Much, and Outsmarting Worry. Her newest series, Dr. Dawn's Mini Books About Mighty Fears, speaks with warmth and humor to children who are struggling with specific phobias, while teaching the tools needed to break free. Her books are very practical and they are relatable. They have sold well over a million copies in 23 different languages. She has been featured on many different news and information outlets, and is frequently interviewed by popular parenting magazines.
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Episode Timeline:
Introduction to Dr. Dawn Huebner … 00:02:08
Criteria for When Fears and Phobias Become Problematic … 00:05:12
It’s the Process Not the Fear Itself … 00:07:35
Parental Accommodation & Unintentionally Increasing Fears … 00:09:45
Typical Behavior Signs of Fears & Reassurance Seeking … 00:12:05
Overcoming with Intentional Exposure to Fears … 00:19:30
Common Mistakes Parents Make … 00:24:15
Overcoming Fears of Animals or Insects … 00:28:00
Developing Self-Talk Helps with Bravery … 00:34:38
Using Fun Facts to Ease Fears & Phobias … 00:36:30
Educational Series for Specific Fears … 00:38:56
Books & Additional Resources … 00:41:35
Anxiety is Treatable & Wrap Up… 00:43:28
Connect with Dr. Nicole Beurkens: