Fear of the dark - children

Many children feel afraid of the dark. A toddler or preschooler tends to be afraid of unfamiliar things that they don’t understand or can’t control. Their active imaginations, and their inability to always distinguish between reality and fantasy, means they may believe that monsters are under the bed or in the wardrobe waiting to spring once the light goes out.

If not addressed, a child’s fear may linger and continue to disrupt their bedtime routine and sleeping habits. There are many ways that parents can help their child to overcome a fear of the dark.

The fearful child
Some children are more fearful than others. Some of the contributing factors may include:

• Genetic susceptibility – some children are generally more sensitive and emotional in their temperament.
• At least one anxious parent – children learn how to behave from watching their parents.
• Overprotective parenting – a dependent child is more likely to feel helpless and this can lead to generalised anxiety.
• Stressful events – such as parental separation, an injury or hospital stay.

• Ask them to tell you about their fears and what exactly makes them afraid.
• Show your child that you understand their fears, but don’t necessarily share them.
• Reassure them that they are safe; explain there are no such things as monsters.
• Don’t try to reassure your child by checking in the cupboard or under the bed as this may suggest to the child that you believe monsters could be there.
• If your child is afraid of the dark because of the possibility of intruders, it may help to show them the security measures around the house, such as locks. However never lock a deadlock while people are inside the house, as it may block escape in a fire or other emergency.
• Ask your child for suggestions on what would make them feel more secure. Offer suggestions yourself. Perhaps they would feel better if they took special toys or comforters to bed.

• Establish a bedtime routine that your child finds relaxing and enjoyable. Predictable bedtime routines help to reduce anxiety.
• Install a nightlight in your child’s room, or let some light from the hallway or other nearby source filter into their room.
• A child’s fear tends to lessen if they feel they have some control over a situation. For example, consider putting a lamp by their bedside so they can switch on the light themselves. Use a low wattage bulb.
• Make sure their television viewing habits and reading materials are appropriate to their age. A child can easily be frightened by news footage, movies or scary books.
• Look around their room at night and try to see things from their perspective. Is there a picture or toy that may cast a shadow or look creepy in the half-light?
• Regular exercise helps to reduce stress levels. Make sure your child has plenty of physical activity during the day.
• Don’t make a big deal or fuss about your child’s fear in front of them or other people, in case they feel more anxious about it.
• Don’t make fun of or belittle their fear.
• There are a range of books on managing childhood fears, both for the parents and the child.

• Your doctor
• Maternal and Child Health nurse
• Parentline Tel. 132 289
• Tweddle Child and Family Health Service Tel. (03) 9689 1577.

• Many children feel afraid of the dark.
• Accept their feelings as real and respond sensitively.
• Practical strategies include talking it over with your child, installing a night-light in their bedroom and establishing an enjoyable bedtime routine.

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