Fear of the dark

[Lartasha]

My 2.5 year old daughter has suddenly developed a massive fear of the dark.Since birth she has always slept in pitch black with the door closed and always been content to do so. She is convinced there are monsters etc in her bedroom and tonight even wet herself when I took her to her room for bed. She now insists on the door being open and a light on in the hall and sometimes during the night nothing will calm her dowm until She has got into bed with us. Im thinking of buying a candleoo nightlight, does anyone have one or could anyone recommend any strategies to deal with her anxieties. Its heartbreaking to see her so scared.

At this age their imagination seems to kick in and it makes them develop fears they never had before. Plus they are learning what fear is. I've noticed my lo who is the same age talking about monsters and being scared and we do what we can to reassure. Does she have a special teddy she goes to bed with? If not perhaps one could be introduced that could keep her safe at night? Night light sounds great. We have glow in the dark stars on the ceiling and a night light for ds. We also keep a light on outside just so he knows we're still there. What I would say is that I am still scared of the dark on occasions and I am 28!! It was something that really bothered me when i was little.

thanks countto10. Think you've hit nail on the head in that she's learning what fear is and will have to continue to reassure.