The fear deserves to be heard
A child who feels scared needs reassurance, even when you cannot see what they are afraid of. Ask about the worry at a calm time and listen without teasing or dismissing it. You can offer comfort while exploring a more familiar bedtime.
Keep the evening predictable
Use the same short wind-down and explain how your child can ask for help. Offer connection before goodnight and a reassuring phrase you can repeat. Agree on practical steps your child understands.
Go at a supported pace
Avoid forcing a child through overwhelming fear or using bedtime as a punishment. Persistent anxiety, severe distress or changes affecting daily life deserve advice from an appropriate healthcare professional. Routine coaching is one kind of support, not a treatment for every concern.
Choose the right help
Katrina can discuss the bedtime routine and clarify whether her support fits your child’s needs. Share the worry on your free 15-minute introductory call so the next step reflects your child, rather than a generic sleep goal.
Coaching and healthcare have different roles
This guide offers general education, not a medical assessment. Talk to a qualified healthcare provider about health, growth, feeding, breathing or persistent distress. For an urgent concern, seek urgent medical help.
Reliable parent resources
Health Canada: safe sleep for every sleep
Canadian Paediatric Society: healthy sleep