Worst Case Scenario
If you’ve got a child worrying about something coming up, sometimes it can be helpful, to really go there with them.
Be sure you’re resourced and even, and not being judgemental at all about their concerns. If you can be in this space, then sit beside them and hold their hand and look at what possibly could happen.
Let them take you through all the possibilities they can think of, while you also brainstorm reasonable events that might play out.
Then, look together at the worst possible scenario. Maybe even hyperbolize it a bit. Staying even, matter of fact.
Make a plan for if that worst-case scenario were to happen, what you / they would /could do. Nod, shrug and make sure they’re with you …
The world wouldn’t end.
You saw it through in your heads, took a look at it together. No, it wouldn’t be ideal, probably not even fun, but everything would in fact be all right.
Remind them again that this scenario most likely won’t take place. However, if it did, assure them - it’d be okay.
This practice won’t erase all their worries but it is a way to quiet some of their fears. Your being willing to look at it and feel into it with them will gently help them to build confidence and trust.
