Scared and Won't Fall Asleep At Night - Parenting Issues Message Board

stepbystep89 · 02-10-2009, 07:19 PM

My eight year old daughter caught the tail end of a commercial for a scary movie a couple of weeks ago and now getting her to go to bed at night has become nearly impossible.

It started out that she was a little scared and wanted her door left open. She was used to sleeping with it closed. Now, it has progressively gotten worse and is to the point where she screams and yells and sobs for well over an hour.

Does anyone have any good tips to help me get her through this fear? I am exhausted and my patience is wearing very very thin. I desparately need your help!

Step

rudiraven · 02-11-2009, 09:51 AM

Have you tried a nite light or a radio turned on low to keep her company? Does she have a favorite toy or stuffed animal she'd like to sleep with? You could also go through her room with her before she goes to bed and "check everything out" and assure her that nothing is in there. If you're a religious family, maybe a cross or other symbol to remind her that God won't let anything happen to her and her guardian angel is always by her side

I'm sure you've already explained to her that what she sees on TV is make believe and she shouldn't take it seriously. I know you're frustrated, but fear is an awful thing and evidently she's really frightened. Try to understand and help her become strong and not be afraid. I wish you well.