Helping Your Child Overcome Fear Of The Ocean
You don’t have to be a child to feel a little apprehensive about the ocean. Does any fully grown adult feel 100% comfortable in it or on it?
If so, they’re probably not being realistic about the actual scope of what it is and the dangers therein.
Even experienced sailors will have more of a respect and appreciation for it as opposed to considering it a great friend, because they know the dangers. And that’s before we even begin talking about what’s in it.
As a child, it can be amazing to see the ocean up close, perhaps during a first beach getaway. But they may also find it worrying and even scary.
That’s understandable, too. But that’s hardly going to track with your beach vacation. So, what do you do in moments like this? Well, we think we have some answers.
In this post, we hope to help your child overcome their fear of the ocean with some simple advice:
Gently Show The Fun You Can Have
Just start very simply, walking towards it with excitement on the beach and showing them the fun people are having, so they know it’s safe.
If you can, start at the very edge, where the water just laps onto the shore, and let them dip their toes in if they want to.
Play simple games in the sand close to the water, or jump over tiny waves while holding hands, because learning the experience in a low-pressure gives them a sense of control.
Then you might go and enjoy an ice cream together while watching it and talking about your favorite fishies. It’s a nice way for them to overcome the shock and feel more comfortable around it.
Make Sure Your Child Is Comfortable On The Beach
As it is with adults, feelings of safety will often come down to how comfortable and prepared your child feels.
Making sure they have proper kids swimwear that fits appropriately and covers them well for sun protection can help them feel like they’re in the right environment, and they won’t worry about getting their feet wet.
The same goes for waterproof sandals and perhaps a sun hat. A fun beach toy can give them comfort while you hold hands on the way, or a beach ball can help them feel more in the “play” mindset, that is best to help them face their fears.
Turn It Into A Fun Adventure, Not A Test
Nobody likes feeling like they’re being tested, especially not kids trying to be brave.
If you constantly make a big deal of how worried or anxious about the ocean they are, those feelings will just be reinforced, and then it becomes “a thing” in the family.
It’s healthier to turn the whole beach day into an adventure story.
For example, you could pretend you’re pirates searching for treasure in the shallow water or marine biologists studying tiny crabs and shells in a language they understand.
The more playful and imaginative the day is, the more your child will associate the ocean with fun and laughter, and they’ll forget the fear they had. Better yet, you’ll have a great deal of fun with this too.
With this advice, you’ll be certain to help your loved one overcome a fear of the ocean for the better.
