“My experience” with fear and my child is a story inspired by a reality many young children live in our schools today. Recent estimates indicate that nearly 20% of children worldwide experience symptoms of anxiety and fear, often appearing as difficulty with social integration or fear of facing others. The bright side of my experience is this: children are capable of overcoming their fears when there is determination and proper family support.
“My experience” began with a phone call from my child’s teacher. She spoke with concern, as if describing a sad scene: in a crowded classroom, my son Imad sits at the back of the class, as if wishing he could disappear whenever he is asked to participate. When he stands up to answer, words freeze on his lips—not because he doesn’t know the answer, but because he is afraid of others’ looks and of being mocked by classmates. It is a simple scene, yet one that repeats daily in the lives of many children. That is why she called, hoping we could work together to find a solution.
Nadormagazine listened to the details shared by Imad’s mother about her seven-year-old son, who—thanks to family support and thoughtful planning—managed to cross the barrier of fear and shyness. The experience was reviewed from an educational perspective with educational specialist Dr. Suad Al-Qadi, in the hope that other mothers may benefit from it.
My Experience with My Child’s Fear
A mother sharing dialogue with her child
When a mother offers her child a safe emotional embrace, sets small practical steps, and celebrates every achievement, she is not only helping her child overcome fear of school—she is giving them a lifelong skill: self-confidence and the ability to face the world.
My First Step: Understanding the Causes of Fear
Fear of interacting with classmates does not come from nowhere. Behind it lies a set of intertwined factors that affect a child’s self-confidence and ability to express themselves. As a result, some children feel internal distress whenever they are in group activities or class discussions, so they avoid participation to avoid attention.
Children may internalize the belief that any mistake will make them a target of ridicule or exclusion. Some have had negative past experiences, such as being ignored, mocked, or even bullied, creating a psychological barrier that is difficult to overcome.
Other children struggle to clearly express their thoughts due to limited early social experience—such as lack of group play or social activities in early childhood—making peer interaction an anxiety-provoking experience.
My Second Step: The Stage of Overcoming Fear
This is where my transformation journey began. I learned that overcoming social anxiety requires dual effort: self-training by the child and genuine support from the mother or family.
I encouraged my child’s own efforts by setting small daily goals instead of aiming for a big leap. He started with simple steps, like greeting one classmate each day.
At home, we practiced short conversations through role-playing with family members, which prepared him better for school situations. I also asked him to keep a small daily journal, writing how he felt during the day and which situations he handled successfully. This helped him see his progress clearly.
Together, we practiced calming techniques such as deep breathing before entering the classroom or speaking in front of others. I also bought storybooks and illustrated materials about courage and communication, helping Imad realize that what he was experiencing was not unusual.
My Third Step: Stronger Effort—The Turning Point
Yes, I made a stronger effort. I gave my son a safe space for dialogue, dedicating time to listen to his fears without judgment, which gave him a sense of reassurance.
I encouraged him without pressure, asking about his day and allowing him to speak freely, so he would not feel like he was under constant evaluation.
I communicated actively with the school, attended meetings, and spoke with teachers to help create a more supportive and understanding environment.
We practiced practically by reviewing class lessons and group assignments at home, so he would go to school feeling more confident.
We celebrated small achievements together. Every success, no matter how simple, was met with words of appreciation, strengthening his motivation to continue.
I also read that recent research confirms that children who receive active family support are up to 40% more capable of resisting social anxiety than those who lack such support.
My Fourth Step: A Complete Change of Scene
A child who was once afraid
After months of continuous effort and encouragement, with support from his father and siblings, the scene changed completely. My son Imad was no longer the withdrawn child sitting at the back of the classroom. He became an active participant in class discussions.
He engaged more in group activities, participating in games and classroom tasks with confidence, which strengthened his sense of belonging.
A circle of friends formed around him, and he built new friendships. He no longer felt like a stranger among his peers.
As anxiety faded, his academic performance improved. He became more focused and participative, positively affecting his grades.
What surprised me most was that Imad developed leadership qualities. He began volunteering for group tasks and school projects and even stepped forward to lead small groups.
Dear fellow mothers, Imad’s confidence did not stop at school—it extended into daily life and was reflected in his communication within the family and the wider community.
The Educational Perspective: Lessons for Parents and Caregivers
This experience carries important messages for every mother and parenting partner:
Fear is not weakness: It is a common experience among children and can be treated.
Family support is the key: A listening, understanding parent can make the difference between withdrawal and confidence.
Small steps lead to big changes: Immediate results are not necessary; gradual progress is the safest path.
Communication with the school is essential: Cooperation between parents and teachers creates a comprehensive support system.
Confidence grows over time: Every small success opens the door to greater achievements.
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