Addressing Concerns About a Child Repeating Harmful Phrases

Many parents find themselves worried when their young child starts repeating phrases or words that seem concerning. This has become especially relevant in the digital age, where children are increasingly exposed to content through various media. The following guide provides a comprehensive approach for handling instances where a five-year-old child is imitating phrases such as 'they will come for us,' 'they will find us,' and 'touch us,' which stem from movies or other sources.

Understanding the Context

Your child might have watched a movie or video that contains these phrases, particularly if she has been around peers who discuss such content. Additionally, it is worth considering whether she has been bullied previously or if another significant event in her life has caused her distress.

One critical indicator to pay attention to is your child's behavior. If you notice that she is waking up in the night feeling afraid or if she exhibits signs of nighttime anxiety, it might be a sign that she is processing something deeply disturbing.

Steps for Addressing the Issue

Ask Questions and Listen

The first step is to approach the situation with caution and sensitivity. Sit your child down quietly and begin by asking where she heard those phrases. Be open and non-judgmental. Ask about the 'they' in the context of her statement. Have any adults, family members, or peers mentioned these ominous phrases to her? Was she playing with a particular group of friends when she picked up these words?

Reassure her that you are not there to get her in trouble. Your goal is simply to understand better so that you can help her cope. If the phrases originated from a school or childcare setting, consider having a private conversation with the teachers or administrators to gather more information.

Assess Potential Signs of Abuse

Sometimes, repeating such ominous phrases can be a sign of underlying issues or even abuse. If the child was not in school or does not have internet access outside of your supervision, it is crucial to investigate whether the phrase is from something she saw online or if someone has deliberately shared it with her. If you suspect abuse, consult legal authorities and seek professional help to ensure her safety.

Taking Necessary Steps for Online Safety

Given the digital age, internet safety is paramount. If your child has internet access, it is essential to limit her exposure and monitor her activity. Notifications and parental controls can help filter out inappropriate content. However, until you can safely monitor her screen time, it is best to limit her internet access.

Social media platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and even websites made for children are not entirely safe. Pornographic content, violent material (gore), and online predators can be easily accessed. For the protection of your child, it is highly recommended to restrict her internet access or supervise her usage.

Conclusion

Addressing a child's use of concerning phrases is a multifaceted issue that requires careful consideration. By understanding the context, engaging with the child openly, and taking necessary steps to ensure her safety, parents can help mitigate any potential trauma associated with these phrases. Additionally, seeking professional help in the form of therapy can aid in the healing process, giving the child the tools to cope with any underlying distress.

In summary, take the time to understand your child's experience, ensure her safety online, and seek help when necessary. Your involvement can make a significant difference in her emotional and psychological well-being.