Helping your "big kid" navigate nighttime fears requires a delicate balance of empathy and reality. Between the ages of three and six, a child’s imagination develops faster than the brain's logical centers, making it difficult for them to separate fantasy from reality.

While it is tempting to use "monster spray," this actually validates the fear by suggesting a real threat exists. Instead, ground your child in the safety of their environment through daytime play and evening "I'll be back" check-ins. By staying anchored in the truth—that their room is a safe, family-only space—you help their developing brain bridge the gap between magical thinking and security.

Is bedtime starting to feel like a negotiation you’re destined to lose? From the "one more water" requests to the sudden second winds, toddlerhood brings new complexity to the evening. But structure isn't about being rigid; it’s about providing the security your child needs to let go of the day. Learn how a simple, sensory-based routine can lower cortisol, fill your child’s connection cup, and help you finally reclaim your evening.