Spooky Scary Things

Question answer: Children’s perception

coalspeaker answered: Do you think children who claim to see things, feel things, or know things really do? And should adults encourage kids’ imagination?

It depends on the child. Of course, a lot of children lie about things to get attention, it’s in their nature. But there are many children that are raised well, and are pretty honest. I think it depends on how they are reacting to what they claim to be seeing/feeling/etc. If it is strange to them, or troubles them, then it is likely genuine. It is also likely genuine if they are saying things they couldn’t possibly know or that is beyond their years- describing people that lived in the house before that they wouldn’t have known, or things the spirits may say to them that would never be said by a child. Of course, you must take everything with a grain of salt. I don’t think my parents believe me when I say to this day I saw spirits in this house! Because they didn’t (or tell me they didn’t) see anything themselves. It’s hard to believe a kid when you don’t have proof.

Now, whether a parent should encourage a kids’ imagination- there is a fine line here. Imagination-wise, go for it! Play imagination games, make little films, put on plays, do whatever you can to encourage that. That was one of the best things to come out of my childhood, was that my huge imagination was always encouraged. But if you’re asking about encouraging a child who is claiming to be seeing spirits: not so fast. I’d talk to a professional- a priest (or other likewise religious source you may have), a nearby paranormal investigation team, a trusted medium perhaps- before doing that. Because that’s kind of making a decision for the child. Me personally, I wouldn’t recommend “encouraging” that. Because you never know what a child, innocent and naive, could unknowingly let in, to their home and to themselves. If it is a child who has never seen anything, I think it’s cool to read them a few ghost stories when they get a little older. It’s just that if it’s a sensitive child, you really walk a fine line where this is concerned.

Such a great, interesting question! Thank you.