Friday, July 25, 2008

NO, PLEASE, NOT THE CLOWNS!


An informal survey of teens in several libraries revealed that almost all had been seriously frightened by clowns as a child. They did not like clowns. They were frightened by clowns. They found clowns "creepy". Yet, parents and others still, trot out the clowns (some even use it as a ministry in their churches..) A recent study in England revealed similar findings to conclude that children really are frightened by clowns: they are loud, scary looking, in your face, and do odd and surprising things. All of which creates high anxiety for many children. So, extreme caution should be used in bringing in clowns for library, school, church, or family parties and events. Make sure all children are prepared, the clown's act is age appropriate, and the appearance non-threatening.

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