My 7-year-old daughter has been having nightmares, and often
asks to come sleep in my bed. Is that OK?
- Elise
Nightmares are very common for kids so it's important to
keep them in perspective and not let them become too big of a deal.
A little comfort from you can go a long way toward helping your
child feel better.
It's not necessary to let her come sleep in your bed or to
stay and sleep in her room after a nightmare. In fact, offering to
let her sleep in your bed might send a subtle message
that you don't believe she can feel safe alone. By helping her
feel better and get back to sleep independently, you
show confidence in her ability to tackle what she's afraid
of. And that's a skill that she can lean on throughout
life.
Other ways to make a child feel better after a
nightmare:
- Reassure your child that you're there.
- Convey that it was just a scary dream, now it's over, and
everything is OK.
- Show that you understand that your child feels afraid
and that it's OK.
- Help your child feel safe. You may need to check under the
bed for monsters. For older kids, providing a night-light or a
flashlight might do the trick.
- Help your child get back to sleep by talking quietly,
offering something comforting like a favorite blanket or stuffed
animal, and maybe talk about the pleasant dreams your child would
like to have.
For more information, check out these articles:
Nightmares
Cosleeping and Your Baby
Anxiety, Fears, and Phobias
Should I Be Worried About My Child's Nightmares?
Reviewed by:
D'Arcy Lyness, PhD
Date reviewed: March 2007
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