Helping Your Child Feel Brave When They're Scared of the Dark

Halloween is just around the corner... costumes, candy, staying up late, it all feels like pure magic. But for many kids, two feelings can exist at once: excitement and fear. The giant skeletons in front yards, spooky masks in stores, and the general chaos of parties, trick-or-treating and costumes can be a lot.

Our own kids have totally frozen up at Halloween displays that were “just pretend,” and it’s a good reminder that even the “fun” can feel overwhelming or scary. The truth is, fear of the dark (and of all things spooky) is completely normal and something you can gently help your child move through with warmth and connection.

Here’s how:

1. Start with Empathy

When your child says they’re scared, skip “there’s nothing to be afraid of.” Instead, try: “It sounds like the dark feels really big and scary right now. I understand.” When kids feel heard and understood, their fear starts to shrink.

You can even bring this idea to life through stories, like The Halloween Costume, one of our Halloween stories that helps kids see decorations and costumes as “just pretend” while practicing calming breaths and bravery.

2. Shine a Light on the Fear

Sometimes darkness feels scary simply because it’s unknown. A soft nightlight or small flashlight can give your child a sense of control. You can also “check the room” together before bed to show that everything is safe.

Our story The Bat Busters was created for exactly this! It turns the idea of a dark, spooky room into a cozy one, thanks to a friendly bedtime team who helps your child feel safe and secure.

3. Create a Calm Routine

Predictable routines build safety. Bath, books, snuggles, lights out and maybe a Goldminds story to finish the night. Wonda the Friendly Witch is a favorite for easing bedtime worries, helping kids see the dark as peaceful, gentle, and full of nighttime friends.

4. Practice Bravery (Playfully!)

You can also make bravery fun. Pretend to trick-or-treat together or let your child play “fear detective”...spotting decorations that looked scary at first but turn out to be silly.

Trick-or-Treat, one of our Halloween sleep stories, helps kids imagine themselves doing just that! They practice being brave, kind, and proud of themselves, even when they feel a little unsure.

5. Celebrate the Small Wins

When your child faces a fear, no matter how small, celebrate it!“You were so brave turning off the light yourself!” Confidence grows from consistent, small moments like these.

Fear of the dark is a normal part of growing up. With empathy, imagination, and consistency, your child can learn that nighttime, and Halloween, can be both magical and safe.

✨ 👉 Download the Halloween Sleep Stories here and see which one your child loves most.