Fragile

I have noticed a change in Chloe the last couple of weeks, due to her growing up rather than anything that has happened (I think). She seems much more 'fragile' all of a sudden. She has always been my fierce, confident, headstrong little warrior. It is very rare that she will cry on being left or be intimidated by a situation. Or at least that is how I have viewed her. But recently I have been reminded of how fragile and precious she is and how she needs protecting and encouraging.

Chloe is suddenly becoming worried and fearful of things. I think this is partly due to an amazing imagination but also more of an awareness of consequences. 2 year old Chloe might be told she can borrow something but must be careful not to break it and she will swing it around, sit on it and not really care. However this situation happened to 3 year old Chloe today and she has been worrying about breaking it since ('mummy you must be very careful, hold it in two hands!'). She is also fearful of the dark and being outside after it's dark (which is so early now!) and also of roads and being hit by a car. In the car park the other day she became upset when I went to pay for the parking because she thought I might be hit by a car.

I also saw a fragile side to my daughter when I went to help out at her preschool on Monday. I was really intrigued to see Chloe interacting with the other children and what she was like in an environment where she was more independent. However, with me there, she didn't want to leave my side and was upset when the other children want to play with me. There are some loud characters there, even louder than her, and she seemed quite intimidated. I felt so protective of her in this new social environment.

I feel a little unsure of how to support Chloe with these fears. I try to encourage her and reassure her without saying that she is silly for feeling this way. I remind her of God's love for her and that he's always with her. I'm now aware that I probably need to have a softer way with her than I have before. I love discovering new things about my children. Knowing Chloe's weaknesses has made me love her more. I have that fierce mother's desire to protect and fight for my daughter and her little heart.