Child Mediumship: signs, care and guidance
Mediumship is a natural faculty of the human being. However, when it appears in childhood, it can raise questions, fears, and even misconceptions. How can we distinguish between a child’s imagination and real spiritual phenomena? How should we respond to a child who sees, hears, or senses Spirits?
In this comprehensive article, based on Allan Kardec’s works and contemporary observations, you will learn:
- What childhood mediumship is
- The most common signs of spiritual sensitivity
- How to provide spiritual guidance without fear
- Why not every child medium will become a medium as an adult
- Practical and spiritual care recommendations

What Is Childhood Mediumship?
Childhood mediumship is the manifestation of spiritual sensitivity in children — usually between ages 3 and 12 — when they demonstrate perceptions beyond their physical senses, such as visions, conversations with Spirits, or unusual intuitions.
According to Allan Kardec, mediumship is neither a privilege nor a punishment, but rather an instrument of spiritual evolution. When it appears early, it shows that the reincarnating Spirit retains a strong connection to the spiritual world.
“Mediumship is inherent to man; it is not an exclusive privilege.” — Allan Kardec, The Mediums’ Book
Why Does Mediumship Appear in Childhood?
There are two main reasons:
- Spiritual sensitivity of the reincarnating Spirit — Some children return from recent incarnations with developed abilities.
- Affinity with protective or family Spirits — A child may be surrounded by Spirits who wish to protect or guide them.
However, this does not always mean the ability will remain in adulthood. In many cases, these phenomena diminish naturally as the child matures emotionally and biologically.
Common Signs of Childhood Mediumship
Visual and auditory perceptions
- The child says they see “strange people” in their room.
- They speak as if conversing with someone present.
- They show sudden fear in empty places.
Unusual emotional sensitivity
- They cry without apparent reason.
- They have accurate intuitions about situations or people.
- They strongly react to tense or harmonious environments.
Vivid dreams and out-of-body experiences
- They describe meetings with deceased relatives.
- They recall dreams as if they were real experiences.
How to Distinguish Imagination from Genuine Mediumship
- Persistence of the phenomenon: If reports are consistent and recurrent, they deserve attention.
- Unexpected details: Children may reveal information they could not know through normal means.
- No external influence: The events are not caused by movies, stories, or recent games.
It is crucial not to label or dismiss the child. A calm and observant dialogue is always the first step.
Spiritual Guidance Without Fear
Avoid:
- Scaring the child with ideas of “punishment” or “demons.”
- Encouraging public displays of the phenomena.
- Forcing premature mediumistic development.
Do:
- Teach simple, spontaneous prayers.
- Promote healthy habits: regular sleep, light diet, recreational activities.
- Explain in age-appropriate language: “Some people have died but are still alive in the spiritual world and may appear.”
Allan Kardec’s Guidance on Children with Mediumship
In The Mediums’ Book, Kardec advises caution:
- Avoid exposing children to complex mediumistic practices.
- Allow the ability to develop naturally.
- Provide moral education, spiritual instruction, and a harmonious home environment.
“Childhood is a period of trial and learning. Psychic faculties should not be prematurely stimulated.”
Practical Recommendations for Parents and Educators
- Spiritual education: Participation in age-appropriate study groups.
- Family prayers: Strengthen the home’s spiritual vibration.
- Emotional balance of parents: Children absorb the energy of their surroundings.
- Seek guidance if needed: A serious Spiritist center can provide support.
Not Every Child Medium Will Become an Adult Medium
Many phenomena fade away during puberty. Childhood mediumship does not guarantee a special mission or an ostensive mediumship in adulthood. In some cases, the faculty reappears later, when the Spirit is more prepared to handle it consciously.
Historical Cases and Inspiring Examples
- Chico Xavier, the Brazilian medium, saw and heard Spirits as a child — a reality accepted naturally by his family.
- Allan Kardec documented spontaneous phenomena in sensitive children in the 19th century, always emphasizing prudence.
Final Recommendations for Handling Childhood Mediumship
- Always welcome with love and understanding.
- Provide spiritual safety without superstition.
- Value moral development over mediumistic phenomena.
- Remember that a healthy lifestyle and rational faith are the best safeguards against spiritual imbalance.
Suggested Reading
- The Mediums’ Book — Allan Kardec
- The Gospel According to Spiritism — Allan Kardec
- Parnassus Beyond the Tomb — Chico Xavier
- Spiritist education programs for children
FAQ – Common Questions About Childhood Mediumship
- Is every sensitive child a medium?
Not necessarily. Some perceptions are natural in childhood and fade away. - Should children attend mediumistic meetings?
No. Education and prayer are recommended, not active practice. - How to help a child who fears Spirits?
Speak calmly, teach them to pray, and provide reassurance. - Can childhood mediumship be developed intentionally?
It should not be forced. Moral education and spiritual protection are best. - Does childhood mediumship indicate a special mission?
Not always. It may be only a temporary sensitivity.
Conclusion
Childhood mediumship is an opportunity for the entire family to learn. When understood through Spiritism, it reveals the continuity of life and the spiritual commitments every Spirit carries when reincarnating. Guiding with love, studying seriously, and educating for goodness are the best ways to prepare sensitive children for their future spiritual journey.
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