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Expert Q&A
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| By Susan Bartell Licensed Psychologist | ||
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My 3-year-old is terrified of the dark. What can I do to help her sleep alone at night?
First, it is very common and normal for 3- to 4-year-olds to be afraid of the dark. As children move through toddlerhood, becoming more independent, they begin to realize there are scary things in the world. This realization evokes all kinds of fears, including nightmares and a fear of the dark. It is important to nurture your child through this time, responding supportively rather than punitively.
Many children are helped if the hall light is left on, or if a small night-light is placed in their bedroom. It can also be helpful to remain in your child's room (although not in her bed) until she becomes sleepy or even until she falls asleep. Talking to her about her fears during the day can also help, as can reassuring her that darkness is not scary. Lastly, playing out bedtime with dolls or stuffed animals û allowing the dolls to express fears and then have your child comfort the dolls û can also help her master her fears.
It is important not to feed into your child's fears by expressing fears and worries about how she is feeling. Instead, show her that you are confident that she will be able to master her fears. Hug her and tell her that everyone has scary feelings but she can practice making them go away, by thinking happy thoughts, singing to herself or listening to tapes to help her fall asleep."
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