What if your toddler is scared of the dark?
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Toddlers and young children are starting to understand the concept of fear so you need to be sympathetic.
Do:
- Reassure him there's nothing under his bed (search the room if need be) and that you're close by.
- Let him have a night light if it helps him feel safe.
- Make up positive stories about the dark: maybe about the fluffy bunnies that come out at night or kids who aren't afraid of the dark.
- Give him control over his fears: a spray bottle of 'magic' water or a magic wand he can wave to keep imaginary monsters away. Make a 'monsters keep out' sign for his bedroom door.
Don't:
- Dismiss his fears. Tell him you felt the same when you were little and explain how you conquered it.
- Use bed as a punishment for being naughty as this will just reinforce his perception of bed as a scary place.
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Where to next?
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Baby sleep solutions continued
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Keeping nightmares at bay
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Moving your toddler into a bed
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Plan out a bed-time routine
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Shut out the light
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