Distract them with something else. Maybe offer them a favorite snack or start talking about a fun activity they like to do. You could say, 'Let's forget about that scary story and go play with your building blocks instead.' This can help shift their focus from the fear of the story to something positive and enjoyable.
Tell them that it's just a story and not real. Explain that there are no real monsters or ghosts in the story. For instance, you could say, 'The scary things in the story are made up by someone's imagination, just like when we make up pretend games.'
You can start by hugging the kid. Physical comfort can make them feel safe immediately. Then, you can talk to them in a calm voice, telling them that it's just a story and not real.
You can give the kid a big hug and tell them it's just a story.
The kid might get really scared and start crying. Maybe they'll hide their face or try to run away from the person telling the story.
First, we can avoid using too much gore and graphic details. For example, in a story about a monster, don't describe the monster eating people in a bloody way. Second, focus on the positive aspects like how the characters overcome fear. In 'The Three Little Pigs', instead of just scaring kids with the big bad wolf, emphasize how the pigs use their smarts to build strong houses.
You could start by simply giving them a hug and telling them it's just a story and not real.
Providing emotional support through counseling or support groups can be beneficial. These can help her deal with the long - standing psychological trauma. Additionally, we can encourage her to write down or record her story for future generations, so that the world never forgets what happened to her and others like her.
Some people might scream or jump when they react to scary stories. It's a natural response to sudden fear.
Use vivid descriptions. For example, if it's a story about a spooky house, describe the creaking floorboards as 'the floorboards groaned like an old man in pain'. Also, add some mystery. Don't reveal the source of the scary thing right away. Let the kids' imaginations run wild for a while.
Use voices. When you tell the story, change your voice for different characters. For example, in 'The Three Little Pigs', make a deep voice for the wolf. Also, use sound effects. You can clap your hands for a door slamming in a spooky house. Add some pictures too. Draw simple pictures of the key elements of the story like the witch's cottage in 'Hansel and Gretel' to make it more real for kids.
Just listen to him attentively. Let him pour out all his feelings without interruption. Sometimes, all a person needs is someone to really listen.