Nine year old children have very few fears. Some children remain fearful of things such as storms, shots, or swimming in deep water.
This Nine is more of a worrier than anything. Anxiety is the predominant emotion and may range from mild to severe. He needs watchful guidance from parents to help him experience a sense of mastery during the elementary years. It's important to help him learn and practice appropriate social behavior and good study habits. Problems that arise in learning or social/emotional behavior should be assessed and addressed in a positive way. Children accomplish so much during the elementary years. Anxiety-provoking situations and lags in development that make children and parents fearful are often resolved quickly at a later stage in development.
In contrast to the pleasant dreams of the eight year old, nines have horrible scary dreams. She will even come and get in bed with mom after semi-waking from a scary dream. She dreams that she is being chased, that someone is being murdered, that she has been shot or bit by a snake. Storms and fires are other frightening themes in the dreams of a nine year old. She is aware that her dreams are related to her daily activities and will moderate her own exposure to frightening things.
Self and Sex The Nine Year Old Child
Book Series by Louise Bates Ames
