What does the child do each time he feels scared at night?
Answers
Explanation:
Simply saying, “There's nothing there, don't worry and go back to bed” might make your child feel as though you don't understand or feel empathy for him. It is more helpful to ask your child to tell you what they are afraid of. Let them know that you understand it can be scary in the dark. It is normal for young children to have fears of the dark and going to bed at night. Most children experience nighttime fears at some point during childhood.
Once you understand the nature of your child's fear, it is important not to support or build up these fears. For example, if he / she is afraid of monsters, don't get out the monster repellant spray or broom to sweep the monster away. These actions tend to make children think you believe in the imagined object as well. It may be helpful for your child to explore fears in the safety of the day. Be careful not to establish rituals to "clear the room of monsters." These attempts to comfort your child may inadvertently create a situation in which you are delaying bedtime and providing entertainment for your child as opposed to providing comfort.