That sounds like a really unsettling experience, and I can imagine how it must have made you feel. Stories like this, where children describe seeing strange figures or mentioning unusual encounters, can be very unnerving. While this situation seems out of the ordinary, it’s essential to approach it thoughtfully and calmly.
Many parents who experience similar things often wonder about the meaning behind their children’s stories. Children have vivid imaginations and sometimes create elaborate worlds and characters, but when these stories seem real or are too specific, they can provoke concern.
First, it’s important to consider the possibility that your son might be drawing from his imagination. Young children are known for making up stories and characters, often inspired by things they’ve seen on TV, books, or even the people around them. If your son has been exposed to media with strange characters or has overheard conversations, he might have simply imagined a “strange man” as part of a creative story.
However, if his drawings and statements seem particularly vivid or if they persist, it may be worth exploring other avenues. Sometimes, children say things that are a reflection of what they’ve experienced emotionally or subconsciously. He could have witnessed something in passing or misinterpreted a situation in his environment, like seeing a neighbor or a family friend that he associates with a figure in his drawings.
If the man in question seems like someone your son actually knows—whether it’s a neighbor, relative, or even someone from daycare or school—it could be a misunderstanding. Children sometimes pick up on adult behavior or moods, which can be confusing for them, especially if they’re unable to fully articulate what they’ve seen or felt. In this case, having a calm and open conversation with your child about the man and exploring where this idea may have come from can help clear things up.
On the other hand, if your child’s description of the man is of someone completely unknown to you and this is the first time you’ve heard such a claim, it could be worth paying attention to how often the stories appear. Children sometimes express anxieties or fears through their drawings, and this “man” might represent an abstract concept, like fear of the unknown or separation anxiety when you’re at work.
Additionally, if you feel like something might be wrong or if these incidents escalate or cause distress, it’s never a bad idea to consult with a child psychologist or counselor. Professionals can help interpret your child’s behavior and provide guidance on how to address it in a healthy and supportive way.
While unusual stories like this are often just a part of childhood imagination, your concern is valid, and it’s important to approach the situation with patience, curiosity, and openness.
