A lot of children have night-time fears, especially when it is time to go to bed. It may have something to do with the darkness of the room or the fact of being alone there. If fear is felt only occasionally and doesn’t interfere with the sleeping habits of the children, then parents will have nothing to worry about. But in some cases, such fear can become more serious and it starts to affect their bedtime routine. Experts from our Daycare Center in North Carolina want to share the tips below to help parents deal with their children’s fear at night.
Deal with the Fear Right Away
Night-time fear is a serious and real issue for children. Parents need to help their children feel protected and safe. They need to help their young ones develop coping skills and confidence. They have to try to get details about what is causing the fear.
Assure Safety
If the fear is caused by separation from their parents at night, they must be reassured to see their parents in the morning. It is a good idea for parents to talk about what they will do the next day. This allows them to think something else and stay positive. In case they fear for something imaginary such as monsters, parents must make them understand that these things don’t exist.
Develop a Bedtime Routine
Parents must create a bedtime routine which focuses on leaving behind what the children are doing during the day and getting them ready to rest. Bedtime has to be separated from watching the TV or a movie. Parents can consider reading light bedtime stories. It may be best to avoid stories with frightening aspects or fairy tales.
Remind them that Parents are Just Nearby
To make the children’s room comforting, it will be better to leave a nightlight on. Or they may choose to have the door tightly closed or left open. Parents must know their preference to ensure a good night sleep. They should expect their child to call out reassurance many times.
Spend Time Discussing the Fears at Daytime
The best time to talk to your children about their night-time fears is when it is not bedtime. Parents need to suggest some ways the little ones can do whenever they feel nervous or whenever they have a problem sleeping. These suggestions include relaxing the body, deep and slow breathing, or imagining fascinating things.
With support from their parents, the majority of children are able to reduce or eliminate night-time fears in no time. Little Believer’s Academy, a reputable Day Care Center in Garner, NC, suggests that parents use bedtime story books to help their child deal with fears during bedtime.
Do you have more tips for parents? Please share with us in the comments section.
