Going to bed shouldn’t be scary for kids. Peace and quiet: just what every family needs.

Things that go bump in the night. Strange shadows. Monsters under the bed. These are all part of growing up—and if anything, they signal a child with a wonderfully active imagination.

Parenting through these unsettled evenings can take a toll on adults’ sleep too. That’s why it’s worth pausing at bedtime to explore ways to “chase away the nasties” and help the whole family rest peacefully through the night.

From nightmares to sweet dreams

Parenting doesn’t come with a manual. Blogs, books, apps—they can guide, but nothing truly prepares a parent for the sleepless nights when a child’s imagination runs wild. Juggling work, relationships, and one’s own rest can leave anyone feeling a little blurry-eyed.

Most children experience unsettling growth spurts that naturally affect their sleep. A racing mind, processing new experiences and emotions, can manifest these during the night. Sleep is a time for the brain to dream the fantastic or wrestle with the unknown—and both are perfectly normal.

Understanding the 6–10-year-old

Research shows this age range is particularly prone to sleep disruptions. The brain is developing rapidly, absorbing daily experiences, which can surface in dreams or nighttime disturbances.

Dreaming is good: During the REM (rapid eye movement) stage of sleep, the mind is unusually active. For a young child, this stage is vital for cognitive and emotional development.
The nurture of nature: As children engage with new ideas and experiences, their personalities, intelligence, and emotions begin to take shape. Sometimes, fears and challenges manifest during sleep.
Talk it through: Some children return to sleep easily, while others may need reassurance. Gently discussing nightmares helps children understand that dreams are not real and fosters emotional well-being.

Settling children into calm, deep sleep

Manage electronics: Age-appropriate TV content and curfews for gaming are essential. Children aged 6–10 typically need 9–11 hours of sleep per night. With early school mornings, bedtime should fall between 9–10 pm, with electronics winding down an hour or so earlier.

Make bedtime fun: Offline activities such as bedtime stories or board games provide a chance for bonding and laughter, helping children transition into a calm sleep state. The bedroom should be a personal, safe sanctuary.

Check diet and exercise: Active play, particularly outdoors, supports deep, restorative sleep. Evening meals should allow for proper digestion, and sweets should be moderated. Children who spend long periods indoors should be encouraged to get moving—walking the dog or running errands can help expend excess energy.

Finding a sleep-happy place: Just as toddlers learn to transition to a toilet, children benefit from learning healthy sleep habits. Gradually encouraging a dark, undisturbed bedroom builds independence and comfort. Persistent sleep disruptions may require deeper conversations about emotional concerns—but immediate alarm is rarely necessary.

Sleep happily ever after with Dial•a•Bed

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Children’s sleep during formative years is crucial for mental and physical development. Sleep is when the brain processes growth and experiences, shaping the young adult. Teaching proper sleep hygiene early is one of the most valuable lessons a parent can offer. Dial•a•Bed has been trusted for generations. #SleepForLife

TAKE CARE: Lifestyle recommendations are not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for prolonged sleep difficulties or related concerns.