My 2 and half year old son is afraid of everything like dark, strangers (men only), ACs and a particular one bedroom in my house. How to deal with him please suggest I was exhausted with all the problems I had and now this one included.

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It sounds like your son is going through a phase where he's becoming more aware of his surroundings and developing fears as a result. It's common for young children to experience fears and anxieties, especially at his age. Here are some strategies you can try to help him overcome his fears:

### 1. **Acknowledge and Validate His Feelings**
   - Let him know that it's okay to be scared and that his feelings are normal. Use comforting words like, "I understand you're scared of the dark. It's okay; I'm here with you."

### 2. **Create a Safe Environment**
   - Ensure that his environment feels safe and secure. If he is afraid of a particular room, try to spend time with him there during the day when it's well-lit and less intimidating.

### 3. **Gradual Exposure**
   - Gradually expose him to the things he is afraid of in a controlled and positive way. For example, if he is afraid of the dark, start by dimming the lights a little at bedtime, and gradually make it darker over time.

### 4. **Use Play and Stories**
   - Use stories or role-playing games to help him understand and process his fears. For instance, you can create stories where the characters face similar fears and overcome them with courage.

### 5. **Provide Comfort Objects**
   - If he has a favorite toy, blanket, or another comfort object, encourage him to bring it along when facing something he fears. This can provide a sense of security.

### 6. **Establish Routines**
   - Having a consistent routine can help him feel more secure. A predictable bedtime routine, for instance, can reduce fear of the dark.

### 7. **Avoid Reinforcing the Fear**
   - Avoid giving too much attention to his fears, as this can sometimes reinforce them. Instead, stay calm and composed when he expresses fear.

### 8. **Encourage Bravery**
   - Praise him when he shows courage in facing his fears, even in small steps. This positive reinforcement can help build his confidence.

### 9. **Model Calm Behavior**
   - Children often take cues from their parents. Stay calm and reassuring when he is scared, as your reactions can influence how he perceives the situation.

### 10. **Seek Professional Guidance**
   - If his fears seem to be getting worse or are interfering with daily life, consider seeking advice from a pediatrician or child psychologist. They can provide tailored strategies to help manage anxiety and fear.

It's important to remember that this is a phase, and with your support and guidance, your son will likely grow out of it. Taking care of yourself is also essential, as managing these challenges can be exhausting. Don't hesitate to ask for help or take breaks when needed.