Whether your toddler is afraid of the dark, thinks there's monsters under the bed or is too scared to sleep without you, you don't have to endure another sleepless night. Make your child feel safe and secure by creating a calm bedtime routine that starts and ends at the same time every night. Additionally, provide your child with tools that make him feel safe, and stay in close proximity to his room when possible. This way, your toddler will feel secure as he is lulled to sleep.
Step 1
Create a safe, comfortable bedroom for your child to sleep in--your child will feel more at ease if her favorite things are around her. Your toddler's bedroom should be a collection of her favorite things, with a comfortable bed of her own to sleep in every night.
Step 2
Start a calming bedtime routine with your child that starts at the same time every night. The bedtime routine can include lowering the lights in the room, reading stories to your child and tucking him into bed. Avoid playing games with your child or doing anything that will rile your child up before bed.
Step 3
Give your child tools to help solve her bedtime fears. If your child is afraid of the dark, give her a flashlight to check out any suspicious shadows. If your child is afraid of monsters, fill a clean spray bottle with water and tell your toddler to spray any scary areas of the room before bed to protect her against monsters.
Step 4
Be confident, suggests Parenting Magazine. If you are tense about the safety of your house or neighborhood, your child may be picking up on your behavior. Tell your child that your house is safe and maintain a calm demeanor, particularly when you are putting your toddler to bed.
Step 5
Show your child where you will be while he is falling asleep, and leave the door to his bedroom open and the hall light on. This way, your child will feel safe knowing you are nearby while he is sleeping.
Tips and Warnings
- Place a nightlight in your child's room to make her dark bedroom seem less intimidating.
- If you think your child may be frightened due to a trauma or incident he suffered, contact a doctor.
Things You'll Need
- Flashlight
- Spray bottle
