Kids and Dark Things
About this episode
Shawn Hopkins discusses children's fascination with dark themes and how it can be a way to explore complex emotions.
Why do some kids become fascinated with dark things? Whether it's Five Nights at Freddy's, horror stories, creepy drawings, monsters, or conversations about death, many parents find themselves wondering: Should I be worried? In this episode of Raising Kids Through Hurt, Shawn Hopkins shares his experience as a foster and adoptive parent navigating his son's fascination with FNAF and explores a different question: What if your child's interest in dark things isn't a warning sign? What if it's a clue? Shawn discusses how children sometimes use stories, mystery, and controlled fear to explore big feelings, difficult questions, loss, trust, safety, and uncertainty. He also reflects on how his own upbringing influenced the way he initially viewed these interests and how curiosity helped him better understand his son. If you've ever wondered what your child's interests might be telling you, this episode offers a compassionate perspective on looking beneath the surface and strengthening your connection. You're doing better than you think you are. Resources: shawnhop.com aparently.community
More episodes of aParently! A Podcast for Parents
- What We've Learned
- When Your Child Says Something That Cuts Deep
- Parenting Through Hurt
- Letting Go Without Walking Away
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