My Child is Scared of New Places. What Can I Do?
This post is part of a series where our team of child mental health professionals answer real questions submitted by readers like you. This post deals with worries related to separation anxiety and tantrums. Please take care when reading.
One parent recently wrote in with concerns about their child’s fear about going to new places. Here is their question, and an answer from our team of child mental health experts.
“My son is having tantrums and anxiety when going into new places. Anytime we need to go to the store, an unfamiliar place, or a family member’s house, he freaks out. Typically, he has a tantrum and starts sweating. He also cries to the point where he wants to throw up. What can I do?”
- G., California
Thank you for contacting Little Otter.
From what you've described, it sounds like your son is experiencing significant anxiety when visiting a new or unfamiliar place.
Here are a few questions to consider:
When did this behavior start? Is this a recent development, or has it persisted for some time?
Are there any other activities that elicit tantrums or anxiety for your son?
After his tantrum or once calm, is he able to enter the new location?
If these tantrums have persisted for a number of months, an important first step is to meet with your child's pediatrician to rule out any underlying medical concerns.
As you rule out any underlying conditions, here are a few helpful tips to try:
Your son may benefit from reading stories about characters who visit new and unfamiliar places, or are learning to try new things. This way, he can learn how other characters have tried being brave in the face of new experiences.
Prepping your child ahead of time may assuage some of his anxiety. Specifically, it may be helpful to start talking about a new store or friend's house a day or two before the visit. You can show him pictures of the store or home and talk about what you're going to do once you're there.
If you would like more guidance around how to support your son, Little Otter is always available for consultation and services as needed.
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