In toddlers with nighttime fears, which sleep arrangement is not recommended?

In toddlers with nighttime fears, which sleep arrangement is not recommended?

• A. Co-sleeping with the child
• B. Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine
• C. Providing a nightlight
• D. Allowing the child to sleep in the parent's bed

Answer: (A)

Nighttime fears in toddlers are common, and the goal is to support safe, independent sleep through a predictable routine and gentle reassurance. Letting the child sleep in the parents’ bed is not recommended because it increases safety risks and can make the child more reliant on parental presence to fall asleep, hindering the development of independent sleep. In contrast, a consistent bedtime routine helps the child know what to expect and reduces anxiety, while a nightlight provides comforting illumination to ease fears of the dark. So the sleep arrangement to avoid is sharing the bed with the child.

Nighttime fears in toddlers are common, and the goal is to support safe, independent sleep through a predictable routine and gentle reassurance. Letting the child sleep in the parents’ bed is not recommended because it increases safety risks and can make the child more reliant on parental presence to fall asleep, hindering the development of independent sleep. In contrast, a consistent bedtime routine helps the child know what to expect and reduces anxiety, while a nightlight provides comforting illumination to ease fears of the dark. So the sleep arrangement to avoid is sharing the bed with the child.