Why Young Children Don’t Feel Fear
Author: Kristina Rautek Potocnik, BA (Hons) Ed. Rehab., HDip Early Childhood Studies, MA Early Intervention & Inclusion, Cert. Play Therapy | SI | ASD | Reflexes | ABA, ongoing MSc SLT
Parents often worry when their child does something risky, like climbing high, running into the road, or putting small things in their mouth. Many wonder, “Why doesn’t my child feel fear?” The answer is simple: the part of the brain that helps us feel fear is not fully developed yet.
This part of the brain is called the amygdala. It helps us understand emotions and respond to danger. When we are scared, the amygdala sends a message to our body to fight or run away. This is called the "fight or flight" response. But in babies and small children, the amygdala is still growing. It cannot yet do its job fully, so young children do not feel fear in the same way adults do.
For example, if a toddler climbs on a window ledge, it does not mean they are brave or naughty. It means they do not yet understand that it is dangerous. Some adults believe shouting or small punishments will teach the child. But the child does not learn that the situation is dangerous. They only learn that something bad (like shouting) comes after they do it.
Does this mean we should wait to teach children about danger? No. From the very beginning, adults should gently guide children. First, we remove danger. Later, we explain and show what is safe and what is not. Over time, as the child’s brain develops, they begin to feel fear in the right way.
Some children with different brain development (for example, children with autism or ADHD) may need more time and support to understand danger. Also, people who had brain injury may not feel fear in the same way as others.
Our job is not to control children by fear, but to help them grow and understand their world. A safe and supportive environment helps the brain develop. And when we understand how a child’s brain works, we can be better parents, carers, and educators.
Knowledge about the brain gives us power. Let’s use it to support our children — not just to teach them to listen, but to help them live safely and happily.
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