Why do kids have nightmares
Kids often have nightmares especially between the ages of five to eight since they are more easily affected by life’s realities during this sensitive period of their lives. This includes tragic or sad incidents like car accidents, acts of violence and especially death.
Your child can also be influenced by scary stories that their peers or siblings tell them.
A disturbing programme or movie can cause stress during the day and nightmares at night.
In addition, other factors such as divorce, a death in the family, or even poverty can contribute to the occurrence of nightmares.
Tips to deal with nightmares
• Listen and be understanding
Although your children’s fears may seem silly and even funny to you, be understanding, non-judgmental and address the situation carefully. Do not dismiss their fears or make fun of them.
• Reassurance
It is vital to let your child know that you care for them and that they will be protected from what they are afraid of. Have daily conversations with them about how they are safe around you and when in your house.
• Have fun in the dark
Children are often afraid of the dark. Darkness fuels their imagination about the dangers of scary and dangerous creatures lurking in the shadows.
If they sleep in an alarmed and scared state, they will very likely have nightmares.
Instead of letting your child hold on to this fear, create games to play with them in the dark such as flashlight tags or a treasure hunt.
• Use your imagination against scary creatures and monsters
Many families find that using a bottle that contains an imaginary substance called “Magic spray” or “Anti-monster spray” is very effective in assuring your child that he is safe and protected.
If you do not know how to solve this problem, or if the magic spray does not work on your child, try to work with them for a solution. Ask your child to suggest what will make them feel safe and protected.
• Security object
Many children feel that if they have a security object to guard against monsters while they are asleep, they will sleep safe and sound.
This is an excellent way to solve the recurrence of nightmares. The security object can be anything from a teddy bear to a baby doll or a blanket.
Finally, do not let them watch scary television shows or those that contain violence, death, or disturbing issues. Things that seem normal to you can be scary to them.
Tell your child to go to bed early, and keep them off the TV at late hours when horror shows are most often screened.
This article first appeared in hellodoktor.com. It was reviewed by Dr Duyen Le. The Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.