Last December 2006, we attended a birthday party here in Malaysia. It was the birthday of Lem’s co-employee’s son. Only Lester and Lizette were with us, Leigh was in PH that time. Lots of fun, balloons, cake and delicious food. Our children were so happy indeed. Until one of the balloons popped out, right in front of Lizette’s face. As expected, Liz cried. We comforted her and she went to the room where the children were playing. Another balloon popped out outside, Liz heard it and cried again. We embraced her and carried her; she did not want to go down anymore and mingle with others. BOOM! Another balloon popped, that was the third explosion for that night… Explosions that made our little girl shiver.
After that incident, Liz doesn’t want balloons anymore. Even on Leigh’s 1st bday we omitted balloons in the party because she was crying and trembling. We never get alarmed because we thought that she is just so young and we hope that someday she will overcome with it when she gets older. But every time we attended birthdays and went to the mall, when she sees balloons, she is afraid and will cry. She even threw the give a way that the celebrant gave her because there is an unblown balloon inside.
Last Saturday, another birthday party and we were invited. With the two kids in tow, off we go. Upon entering, Liz did not notice the yellow balloons. After eating and the children were already playing, Leigh reached the balloons and Liz saw it. She then begun to cry and telling Leigh to put down the balloons or stay away with it. But Leigh was so happy with what he is holding. So, to comfort Liz, I let her go with Papa to another house (Pinoy also) where the drinking session was held.
Now I am worried with my girl. I am afraid she has now a bglobophobia. How can she overcome her fears? Does she needs theraphy in her age now?
Parents out there…need help.
bGlobophobia, defined as “a persistent, abnormal, and unwarranted fear of balloons”.
