Afraid of the dark at ages 2–5: how to help
A gentle nightlight, a familiar routine and listening can make bedtime feel easier.
Fear of the dark can emerge in the preschool years. Enjoying a room by day does not mean it feels the same at night. Listen without laughing at the fear or confirming an imagined danger. Try: “That feels scary; I am here.” Agree on a routine you can repeat and change one thing at a time. There is no need to search for monsters each evening or promise the fear will disappear immediately. This guide is for young children, not infant safe sleep.
You can try
- Talk during the day: “Which part of bedtime feels hard?” Let your child use words or a drawing.
- Try a dim nightlight or a hallway light, keeping cords and sockets safely out of reach.
- After a story, repeat a calm goodbye. Notice what helps and share the routine with other caregivers.
Reviewed sources
BabyBright, on your phone too
Keep observations, routines and memories in one place. Use BabyBright in your browser or download the app for everyday moments.
Clear limits, small choices
Make everyday expectations easier for your toddler to understand.
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My toddler won’t accept “no”: what can I do?
For ages 1–3: clear limits, small choices and words to use when your child protests.
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