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Fun Without the Sun
Games in the Dark Can Help Little Ones Overcome Fears By Mark Stackpole
Christine Nelson also recommends nighttime neighborhood nature walks. "Taking time to notice nature is important," she says. "It teaches children to slow down and focus as well as appreciate and respect the purpose of nature: a budding tree or a squirrel burying its dinner."
"Our ancient ancestors undoubtedly had good reason to be afraid of the dark," says Dr. Virginia Shiller, a licensed clinical psychologist, lecturer at the Yale Child Study Center and author of Rewards for Kids! Ready to Use Charts and Activities for Positive Parenting (Magination Press, 2003). "When wild animals roamed close by, children were safest if they clung to their parents. However, in our civilized society, the dark night is no longer full of dangers."
Dr. Shiller suggests some familiar games with a nighttime twist. "Play Follow the Leader," she says. "Dads can lead their children in and out of dark places, with the child following close behind. Switch roles and allow your child to be the leader. Allow your child to hold your hand at first; then playfully encourage her to follow in your footsteps."
With people you can't see waiting out there to jump out at you, hide-and-seek has the capacity for creepiness no matter when you play it. It may be a game best left for daylight then, right? Not necessarily, even for younger children.
"Parents might start out playing this game at dusk or in rooms that are dimly lit," Dr. Shiller says. "Children's excitement about the game often helps them overcome their fears."
Building on the nature walks taken by the Nelson family, Dr. Shiller suggests incorporating some fantasy play while you're strolling around and observing your surroundings. "Pretend to be a daddy owl, and have your child be a baby owl," she says. "In this imaginative game, teach your 'baby owl' about all the sights and sounds of the night."
