Here’s How You Can Ease Your Child’s Nervousness About Sleeping Alone

Did you know that fear of the dark, or nyctophobia, is one of the most common among young children? Even among adults, it’s estimated that about 11% of the US population still holds this fear as well. So don’t worry if your child is having trouble sleeping alone at night. There are a variety of things you can do to ease your child’s worries, and it’s all about finding what works for you and your family. Here are some tips to help ease your child’s anxiety and help them get a good rest.

ESTABLISH A BEDTIME ROUTINE 

One of the best ways to ease your child’s anxiety about sleeping alone is to establish a bedtime routine. This can help them feel more comfortable and confident about going to bed. A bedtime routine can include things like reading a story together, saying prayers, or listening to calming music. Doing the same thing every night will help signal to your child’s body that it is time to sleep. It is also important to avoid giving them caffeine after lunchtime and to limit screen time before bed. 

You can get a calming scented candle to light before bedtime as well, but be sure to blow it out at the end of the bedtime routine since it should not be left unattended overnight. Or similarly, there are calming scented sprays on the market with lavender essential oils to be used on pillows and covers to help calm children before going to sleep. 

MAKE THE BEDROOM A CALM AND RELAXING SPACE

Another way to help your child feel more comfortable about sleeping alone is to make the bedroom a calm and relaxing space. This means removing any toys or objects that might be disruptive. Close closet doors and anything that might cause unnecessary fears. It can also be helpful to use calming colors and lighting in the bedroom- stick to cool hues. There are plenty of night lights on the market if your child doesn’t like complete darkness. 

ENCOURAGE YOUR CHILD TO USE A SECURITY OBJECT

For some children, having a security object can be very helpful in easing anxiety about sleeping alone. This could be a stuffed animal, a blanket, or even a favorite toy. Encourage your child to keep this object with them when they go to bed. As they grow older, assure them it’s completely normal to still have them. Did you know that among 2000 adults surveyed, 40% of adults have a stuffed animal or blanket from their childhood? Even if your little one doesn’t need to sleep with their security object when they’re older they can still be a precious keepsake and continue to be there for them when they need it.

TALK ABOUT ANY FEARS OR CONCERNS

If your child has any specific fears or concerns about sleeping alone, it’s important to listen and talk about them. This can help you understand what is causing their anxiety and figure out how to best address it. 

STAY POSITIVE AND REASSURING 

Throughout the entire process, it’s important to stay positive and reassuring. Let your child know that you understand their anxiety and that you’re there to help them through it. Finally, if your child is still having difficulty sleeping, you may want to consult with their doctor. There may be an underlying medical condition that is causing the problem. The doctor can also help you rule out any potential sleep disorders.

CONCLUSION

Getting a good night’s sleep is hard for everyone at times. With kids being so used to having others around them all day, being alone at night is something they need to adjust to slowly. By following these tips, you can try to address some of their anxieties and help them establish a good sleep routine.