Handling Sleepover Fears

Though a friendly sleepover may appear to be something fun for a child to do, some fathers may find their son or daughter feeling anxious about spending the night somewhere other than their home.

This can be especially true if it happens to be the first time the child is being separated from their father. To combat this situation, dads should know that this kind of behavior is normal and that there are certain parenting tips that can help guide them through.

First, fathers should encourage open communication about the issue and ask why their child may feel anxious. Phrases like "You'll be fine" should be avoided since it may appear to the child that the problem is simply being brushed to the side.

Instead, fathers may want to remind their children that the sleepover is about friends hanging out and that it will be a fun time.

However, it is also important to know that separation anxiety disorder is a real affliction. If a child shows signs of excessive anxiety (refuses to be out of sight from a parent), then it may be wise to see a doctor.