There could be several reasons why little kids might appear afraid of you or run away, especially if you are a tall adult. It's important to remember that children's responses to strangers can vary widely based on their individual personalities, experiences, and the context in which they encounter you. Here are some possible reasons:
Unfamiliarity: Children may be naturally cautious around unfamiliar faces, especially if they haven't interacted with many adults outside of their immediate family or caregivers.
Height and size: Being significantly taller than a child can be intimidating to them. Your height might make you appear more imposing, even if you don't intend to be.
Facial features: Some children may be more sensitive to certain facial expressions or features that they find intimidating or unsettling, even if you are trying to smile.
Shyness: Many children are naturally shy, and interacting with new people can be overwhelming for them. They may not know how to respond to someone they don't know well.
Negative experiences: Unfortunately, some children may have had negative experiences with unfamiliar adults, leading them to be more cautious or fearful around strangers.
Parental influence: Children often pick up on their parents' cues and reactions. If their parents seem wary or cautious around strangers, the child might emulate that behavior.
Nonverbal cues: Children are particularly sensitive to nonverbal cues and body language. Even if you are smiling, other aspects of your body language might convey discomfort or stress, which could be off-putting to them.
Age gap: A significant age gap between you and the child might make them unsure of how to interact with you.
If you want to interact more positively with children and make them feel more at ease around you, here are some suggestions:
Respect personal space: Give children their space and avoid being too overwhelming or intrusive.
Approach slowly: Approach children calmly and without sudden movements.
Use a friendly tone: Speak gently and use a warm, friendly tone of voice.
Engage in child-friendly activities: If appropriate, join in on activities that interest the child to create a positive connection.
Interact through play: Children often feel more comfortable when adults engage them in play or games rather than direct conversation.
Respect boundaries: If a child seems hesitant to interact, don't force the interaction. Give them time to feel comfortable.
Remember, it's entirely normal for some children to be shy or cautious around unfamiliar adults, and it's not necessarily a reflection of your appearance or personality. With time and patience, they may become more comfortable around you. If you're around children regularly, being consistently kind, patient, and understanding will likely help build trust and rapport with them over time.