Fear of the dark is one of the most common childhood worries. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, around 40% of children experience some form of night-time fear in their first years of life. It is not just a phase; for many children, this worry can become a real source of night-time anxiety, affecting their rest and, consequently, their daily well-being. But why is there a fear of the dark?
WHEN FEAR BECOMES NYCTOPHOBIA
It is natural for children to experience a certain amount of fear of the unknown. But when this fear escalates into extreme anxiety reactions, it could be nyctophobia. What exactly is nyctophobia? It is an irrational fear of the dark, which can lead to crying, insomnia and even bedtime phobia.
Harvard University studies have shown that this type of fear can affect the quality of a child’s sleep and emotional development. This problem can affect not only their sleep. It can also affect their school performance and emotional state. This is because fear prevents them from developing self-confidence and facing their worries with confidence.
HOW TO HELP CHILDREN OVERCOME THEIR FEAR OF THE DARK
The good news is that this fear of the dark can be treated with appropriate strategies. Here are some keys to helping little ones feel safe and overcome their fear of the night:
1. UNDERSTAND AND VALIDATE THEIR FEAR
It is important not to minimise or mock their fear. In their world, darkness can be a real danger. Talking to them, asking them what they feel and validating their emotions is the first step. For example, a study published in the Journal of Child Psychology indicates that parental empathy contributes significantly to the reduction of night-time fears.
2. CREATE A RELAXING SLEEP DYNAMIC
Establishing regular bedtimes, accompanied by relaxing activities such as reading a story or listening to soft music, can reduce night-time anxiety. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a consistent sleep routine improves the quality of children’s sleep.
3. UTILIZAR LUCES NOCTURNAS
A small companion light can help children feel secure without disrupting the production of melatonin, which is necessary for deep sleep. Research suggests that dim lighting reduces children’s sense of vulnerability.
4. TURNING DARKNESS INTO PLAY
Shadow play, night stories or exploring the dark in a fun way will help them to see the lack of light from a different perspective. For example, some child therapists recommend night-time exploration games indoors to familiarise children with the dark in a playful way.
5. TEACH THEM TO CONTROL THEIR THOUGHTS
Explaining that monsters do not exist and helping them to visualise the night as a time of calm rather than danger can reduce their anxiety. According to child psychology experts, positive visualisation techniques can reduce irrational fear of the dark.
AT CASVI VILLAVICIOSA, WE ACCOMPANY THEM IN THEIR EMOTIONAL DEVELOPMENT
At Casvi Villaviciosa International School, we understand that emotional development is key to children’s well-being and learning. We know that children’s fears, such as fear of the dark, are part of their maturation process. That is why we offer an environment in which children feel safe to express their emotions and face them with confidence.
Our educational methodology is based on emotional learning, encouraging the management of fears through dialogue, empathy and personalised accompaniment. In the classroom, our teachers work with students to help them identify their emotions, understand them and learn strategies to manage them in a healthy way.
In addition, at Casvi Villaviciosa we are committed to play as a pedagogical tool, using playful activities so that children can explore their fears in a safe environment. Through them, we help them to change their perception of darkness, reinforcing their self-esteem and security.
Close contact with families is another fundamental pillar. At school, we offer guidance to parents on how to support their children at home, providing them with strategies to help them overcome their fears.
Thanks to this holistic approach, many children have gained autonomy and peace of mind, facing their fears with greater confidence. Families who are part of the Casvi community highlight how this emotional training has had a positive impact on their children’s wellbeing, improving not only their rest, but also their school performance and personal development.
