Dealing with bedtime fears

Most all children have fears. The fears surface most at bedtime. There's a monster in the closet. That's a scary sound. What's under my bed. I like to check the closets and under the beds and let the boys watch me check. That helps. Lying down with them, letting them see me close my eyes and relax, that helps a lot too. Nightlights are a must. My boys have one that's plenty bright. Letting the children see the parent content and happy, that's always going to help. Children act as they are taught. Telling a nice soft story while lying next to them usually soothes and lulls as well. Easier said than done. But as with all fears, they fade quickly.