Children and bedtime fears might be a hot topic for young parents this close to Halloween. Just a glimpse of a scary movie can really frighten a child, keeping them (and you) from a peaceful night’s sleep. I have to confess, I had actually posted a list of spooky stories for kids and had to retrieve it after giving it some Biblical thought on Halloween. You can read more about that here.
If your child is having bedtime fears and nightmares, consult the Word of God. Sure, the Biblical way of thinking is old fashioned, but then, God is rather old. These scriptures can help you understand fear and its origin, and in turn, help you minister to your child.
- In its context, this scripture is regarding boldness in sharing faith. But you can clearly see fear is not from God. Power, love and self-discipline is.
2 Timothy 1:7 - For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline. (NIV)
For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (KJ)
- This verse tells me if we can get a grasp on God’s immense love for us, fear will subside. When your child is afraid, talk about God’s love. Sing Jesus Loves Me.
1 John 4:18 - There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love. (NIV)
- If they aren’t old enough to understand, they’ll always understand a cuddle. Demonstrate God’s love, by sheltering them with yours. (This might actually be more important than talking and singing.)
What the Sleep Experts Say about Children and Bedtime Fear
Excerpt from National Sleep Foundation
Nighttime fears and nightmares are extremely common in children, especially during the preschool years, but they can definitely occur in older children and adolescents as well. They are part of normal development, as children’s imaginations develop and children begin to understand that there are things that exist that can hurt them. There are times that fears and nightmares are the result of a frightening experience, from being scared by a large dog to being in a car accident to watching the news, but other times they seem to come out of the blue. Family conflict and parental anxiety can also play a role. Anything that makes a child more emotionally aroused is going to make his fears worse and make him feel more anxious.
