Going to sleep in the dark is a normal part of life for adults, but for children, the lights going off can be downright terrifying. It’s easy for kids’ imaginations to run wild at night time – and it’s not uncommon for children to assume that the monster hiding under the bed in the books they read at school could make an appearance in their rooms too!
Children are most often afraid of the dark from around the age of two, and through the preschool years, although older children can also feel anxious about the dark.
Getting your child to fall asleep and stay asleep can be close to impossible if they are riddled with anxiety every time the lights go down. Luckily, we have some great tips to help your child overcome their fear and enjoy a comfortable and restful sleep.
1: Acknowledge the fear
While your child’s fear may be irrational to you, it is very real to them – so ignoring it won’t make it go away. Instead of telling your child that “big boys / girls are not afraid of the dark”, reassure them by telling them that you will be close by if you need them, without making too much of the fear itself.
2: Keep the lights off
When you hear your child calling in the middle of the night, don’t reach for the light or bring them into your bed. You should try to avoid sleeping in the same room as your child as this will validate their fears even more.
3: Create positive associations with the dark
Try to make positive associations with the dark by visiting dark places such as aquariums or adventure caves. You could also hunt for glow-in-the-dark objects in the garden or go out for evening walks together when the nights are longer during the winter months.
4: Leave a little lamp on
A dim night light can go a long way in helping your child to overcome their fears of the dark. melting a child’s fears. You can also leave your child’s bedroom door slightly ajar with the hall light on.
5: Check in
If your little one is anxious about you leaving the room, tell them that you are only in another room and that you will pop your head in every five to ten minutes until they fall asleep.
6: Applaud bravery.
Let your child know how proud you are every time they confront their fears – no matter how small the step. You may want to create a star system to reward your child for being brave or you may want to organise a mini celebration or a small treat for the first time your child sleeps through the night with the lights off.
Like this blog? We will be back soon with more help and advice on getting your child to sleep through the night.
