Is Reading Fairy Tales And Scary Stories Harmful To Children?

Yesterday's fairy tales and today's scary books are filled with conflicting vivid imagery of both good and evil. It is no wonder that many parents pause when the wolf is seconds away from making a meal of Little Red Riding Hood or The Magic Treehouse's Jack and Annie are surrounded by circling sharks. Parents can't help but wonder if the scary content is harmful or if children are perceptive enough to internalize any dark meanings. Experts say the answer is no. Children take the stories at face value and nothing more. Well chosen fairy tales can even be learning tools if presented in the right way at the right time. Here is the nutshell version of rules to remember when reading fairy tales to children:

1. Use fairy tales to elicit discussions: Fairy tales often conveniently explore common issues children face as they come of age like the fear of abandonment, vanity, greed, envy and sibling rivalry, leaving those issues wide open for parent discussion.

2. Make sure the fairy tales you are reading aren't encouraging negative stereotypes: Watch for books that imply it pays to be physically pretty. This message can contribute to young women feeling they are inferior if they don't meet unrealistic standards of beauty. Counter any negative stereotypes by initiating frank discussions about any stereotypes a book contains.

3. Chose books which allow your child to witness victory: Pick books in which the main character transcends the events that challenge him to become a stronger person in the end.

4. Never force a book on an apprehensive child: Read any questionable books alone first. If there is any doubt whether the child is ready, wait. Consider forgoing movie versions for the corresponding book. Many book editors will greatly water down or even omit scary parts in collections for younger children.

5. Know that most kids know the difference between fantasy and reality: If your preschooler wants to hear Sleeping Beauty for the one hundredth time, be glad she wants to read. Children know the difference between reality and fantasy and can easily digest the enormity of a character's problem if it is presented in a fantasy-like fashion.

Most adults who read fairy tales and scary stories as children grew up with the full realization that mirrors don't engage in conversation and magic beans don't literally exist, but it can still fun to read about them. Isn't part of the enchantment of childhood believing in a little magic?