Dark winter evenings: toddler afraid in the car

[Thinkstoomuch]

My 16-month-old DS is getting stressed out in the car now that we're having to do some journeys in the dark (never had to drive him much at night before now).

I'm having to endlessly sing Wheels on the flippin' Bus etc. to keep him happy.

Has anyone experienced this? Does it last? I'm starting to think I'll have to rig up some sort of light above his car seat.

[southeastastra]

it's horrible isn't it? my ds likes to listen to the radio. i find singing does the trick though

[NorksBride]

I would guess that it will soon pass - the Christmas lights will be on soon, that might help.

My DCs were never afraid of the dark in the car but I did have to pick DH up off 6pm train every night. I used to tuck blankets over their laps and always take their favourite cuddly thing.

You could try some story tapes, Kipper is good and the Winnie-the-Pooh with Judi Dench & Stephen Fry - Geoffrey Palmers Eehor is wonderful!! And stories are less grating on your ears than songs!

[EmmyLou]

Get him a chunky, toddler friendly torch to play with - shouldn't create too much light to distract you when driving...?

Can you tell if it's the dark outside or inside the car or both that upsets him?

[Thinkstoomuch]

Good idea, will definitely look into getting some story CDs for the car.

EmmyLou - dunno, it's probably mainly because the inside of the car is very dark. He perhaps whinges less when there are more lights outside.

[EmmyLou]

Clip on book lights are quite cheap and could be attached to something over the back of the seat infront of him. The light is also directional.

Would've thought that story and music tapes are the way to go - distraction is usually the best policy as they invariably end up getting used to any new situation...in the end.