What to do when you child fear's growing old??

[angel86love]

       
   


                                         SO I just want to begin with saying hello to everyone in the forum, Im greatfull to have a safe place where my open mindingness is allowed and not judged by character. Today was a different type of day, Don't get me wrong it was a beautiful day but something in the universe was off a lil bit today, moods were shifted in almost everyone in my close circle,
my oldest son just turned 10 years old in february, hes so smart and loving and also very talented.
   
                                        My son has shown me so many new ways to look at life and see the things in a different way, but there's just one thing he doesn't want to be a teen? he's in fear of growing old and I can't grsp the thought of what is happening in my childs brain that he fears being older? The queation I ask is has  anyone had this fear in them or in there family or children? And if so how did you help them with getting  a hold of the fear and turning it into a positive growing expierence?
                                                                               Thanks everyone Angel Love
     
             
           

[linderlizzie]

First of all, I went through all sorts of fears growing up that were irrational, but absolutely terrifying. I also went through ridiculous hopes and aspirations which were wonderful. I think it's natural and it's a phase to have all sorts of feelings. If he wants to talk about it, then talk it through with him. 

Tell him it's okay to have fear, but that he'll have lots of different and fun experiences as he grows up that he probably would not want to miss.

Best of luck as he grows and goes through all the "stuff" that kids go through. And if you have other children, there will be all "new stuff." Enjoy the ride. It's actually quite short when you look back on it.

[potluck6]

Tell him  not unusual to feel that way. teen years can be hard even with the popular teens. He may change his mind when he sees the cute girl and start thinking ok now i want to grow up.

[dreamyxo]

Change and the fear of unknown is scary.  I know I don't want to grow old either, who does?

[cfsdaniels]

I would start talking to my child about other issues rather than this.  A child is too young to be worried about stuff like this!

[themrs13]

Love them and let them know it is a part of life.

[Bonami]

This is tough. I am way older than a "teen" but had been told to act my age in different ways. I like myself so I will act the way I want to based on my personality. So anyway, from my perspective, I would continue to listen to his concerns; just let him know when you turn a certain age does not mean he have to do what his peers are doing especially if he is being push to certain activities that may make him popular and acceptable yet can be bad such as, "drinking and driving." I would also ask leading questions to get to the bottom of his concerns. Is he hearing something about high school that he is concern about, etc? I have been there, it is no picnic.   

[steveng1]

reassure him know that things will get better and to stay strong, you should also try to guide him in the right direction. He'll probably get over it while getting more mature so he'll be alright. Good luck