Child Afraid of the Dark: 8 Ways to Help
The prevalence of nightlights for children speaks volumes: nearly every child navigates a phase of "I'm afraid of the dark," a fear that can linger into adulthood for some. Here are some simple yet effective ways to help your child conquer their nighttime anxieties.
Fear of the dark in children usually appears at the age of 3-6 years: this is due to the development of imagination - the child learns to fantasize, but he does not yet have enough life experience to cope with everything that he imagines in his head. So, how to help a child who refuses to enter a dark room or is afraid of monsters under the bed if the nightlight turns off? Here are some tips.
1. Talk about the fear
Do not ignore the child's переживания. Ask him to tell you in detail about the fear. In the format of a story: "Imagine that you are writing a book or a film. What characters are there? What happens in this darkness?" This kind of conversation helps to reduce the level of anxiety and turn fear into a controlled fantasy.
2. Draw together
Offer your child to draw what he is afraid of. And then add funny details to the drawing - funny clothes, unusual accessories. This will help the child see that fear can be made less scary. Yes, this is the same method from "Harry Potter": to laugh at something scary is a really great way.
3. Do not try to rationalize
Phrases like "there is no one there" or "look, I'm not afraid" do not work. Instead, the child may feel that his переживания are devalued. Show that you understand the child's emotions and are ready to help.
4. Tell about ways to calm down
Deep breathing. This simple exercise helps to relieve muscle tension: first exhale and inhale through the mouth for 5 counts, then hold your breath for 5 counts and exhale for 5 counts through the nose. Repeat several times. Do it slowly.
Game of mindfulness. Offer the child to find 5 red objects in the room or listen to the sounds around. This switches attention from frightening thoughts to the surrounding reality.
5. Move more
Regular walks and physical activity 2-3 times a week help to reduce the level of anxiety. Sports or active games strengthen not only the body, but also the child's self-confidence.
6. Play in the dark
Gradually introduce the child to the darkness through play. Start with games with a flashlight in a darkened room, and then increase the time spent in the dark. Just do not throw the child immediately into a dark room with the words: "Find me." This is no longer a game, but a test of strength.
7. Write a letter to fear
Together with the child, write a letter in which he can tell his fear how strong he is and how well he manages to scare. This will help the child build a safe distance between himself and his emotions.
8. Read books and watch cartoons
Books and cartoons will help the child understand that fear is normal, and will show how to deal with it. Here are a few examples:
- The book "I'm not afraid of the dark! A book-game with work with emotions," Teona Tomi
- Cartoons "Monsters, Inc." and "Rise of the Guardians."
When to see a psychologist
If the fear of the dark persists for a long time and greatly interferes with the child, it is worth seeking advice from a child psychologist. The specialist will help to understand the causes of fear and find effective strategies for overcoming it.
It is important to remember: fears are a part of growing up. With your support, the child will learn to cope with them and become more confident in himself.
