Children May Feel They Are Responsible

Even though it appears illogical to us, children often think that they are responsible for what is happening.

Why?  Because children see the world in egocentric ways. What this means is that they assume that the world revolves around them and that the things that happen in the world are their fault. Being egocentric does not mean that children are selfish. This is part of their natural development. It is the way God created them. It is normal through much of childhood and certainly up until the age of seven or eight.

Talk to the child about this. Tell them this is normal for children. Ask them if they feel that something is their fault. Explain to them that this is not their fault. This may need to be repeated many times and they may need many opportunities to express their real feelings. When you communicate patiently and lovingly, your word will be like the gracious words we read about in Proverbs 16:24
Gracious words are like a honeycomb, sweetness to the soul and health to the body.