positive male role models

Every kid is different, every boy is different some can be timid and other boisterous. Sometimes its the kid and where they are in life it does not neccessairly mean they are not going to be strong, you son is 4 years old I wouldn't worry about it so much.

By timid, what do you mean, what does your son do that makes you think he is?

have you sort professional help? If he is very/really afraid then you may need some help.

This isn't due to not having a male role model around, this can happen with.

Kids mostly grow out of their fears, but some at times with dogs kids become afraid after the dog has hurt them.

The car bit is unusal.

Have you asked him what it is that he doesn't like about dogs and cars, i think young kids equate don't like with scared, so if you are not getting any answers from scared perhaps say the question with "what don't you like...."

Also, (i'm not blaming you) kids can pick up what we are feeling without you knowing about it or aware of the feeling, and act it out.  

Is he afraid of all cars? Or just cars that whiz past. My 4 year old daughter is afraid of trucks. She said it's because they're big and loud. Maybe that's why he's afraid of them. Prophet Isa had only a mother to raise him.

rookaiya wrote: Taliyya, thanks for reminding me about Prophet Isa. its so easy to get into this self pity and lose sight of reality. Millions of women all over the world have been raising boys and girls from way back when. most have done a splendid job. its the sound of the engine that frightens him.

Sister Rookeya

I would suggest you to have patience untill he is 10-12, he is likely to have positive changes once he gets used to his school friends, teachers, outside world and develop good relationship with them. I myself grew up almost without much interaction with my father, He was mostly away for professional reason. I spent only two years of my life consecutively with him. Then I went to a boarding school far away from home and would meet three times a year for 7-10 days. Virtually i have no influence of him in me.

He passed away also quiet early. We were two brothers. I was a child as you describe your to be. But by the grace of Allah, i can say from my experience; please encourage him to mix with people (Friends and other acquinted) encourage and appreciate his decisions of life. He will insha-Allah turn into a very confident man. He has that environment than many child with not so good father. please Give him the time & encouragement by appreciating what he achieves.

Consult professionals at 10-12 if still he doesnot show improve, it's too early to be worried.

Salam

From a Brother