My child is afraid of the dark and won't sleep alone. Is that normal?
Yes, fear of the dark is one of the most common childhood fears, especially between about three and eight. It grows with imagination: a child who can picture dragons and adventures can also picture something under the bed. The fear is real to them, even if the monster is not. Take the feeling seriously without confirming the danger. "You feel scared in the dark. I understand. The room is safe, and I am close by." Avoid "monster spray" rituals that suggest monsters exist, and avoid teasing or "don't be a baby." Practical things help: a small night light, a door left slightly open, a favorite soft toy, and a calm, predictable bedtime routine. During the day, playful exposure builds courage, like flashlight games, reading in a blanket cave, or a treasure hunt in a dim room. At night you can sit nearby for a while and gradually move further away over several evenings, instead of leaving suddenly. Praise small brave steps. Most children grow out of this fear as they get older and better able to tell imagination from reality.
When to get help
Talk to your pediatrician or a child psychologist if the fear is so strong that it affects daytime life, if your child has panic-like attacks, frequent nightmares about a specific frightening event, or if many fears appear suddenly after something stressful, such as an accident, a loss or a change at home.
This answer is general information and does not replace medical or psychological advice. Updated:
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