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How Long 'Til Bedtime? | Sleep and Parenting PodcastAuthor: Allison Egidi Pediatric Sleep Coach
From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep trainingthis is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, How Long 'Til Bedtime? delivers real solutions for everything from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, desperately want your evenings back, or just need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, we've got you covered. Language: en Genres: Kids & Family, Parenting Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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264. Should My Child Sleep With a Night Light? Night Lights, Fear of the Dark & Better Sleep
Episode 264
Tuesday, 3 November, 2026
Should your child sleep with a night light? If you've ever wondered whether a night light helps your baby or child sleep, or what to do when your preschooler suddenly becomes afraid of the dark, Allison Egidi is sharing her advice. In Episode 264, Allison explains why keeping your child's bedroom dark can support better sleep and how the way you talk about darkness may influence your child's feelings about it. You'll learn why babies don't need a night light, when fear of the dark often develops, and how books, shows, or even conversations with other children can introduce the idea that darkness is something to fear. Allison also shares practical ways to respond when your child says they're scared, without accidentally reinforcing that fear. Already have a night light in your child's room? Allison explains how to transition away from it and, for children who are already afraid of the dark, how a dim red or amber sleep light can help make the change easier. In this episode, Allison covers: Why darkness matters for your child's sleep and how light can affect melatonin. Why babies and toddlers who aren't afraid of the dark don't need a night light. When a fear of the dark commonly develops and how it can start. Why you may want to avoid books and shows centered on being afraid of the dark. What to say when your child tells you they're scared. How to transition away from a night light without making the change feel frightening. How to use a dim red or amber sleep light as a bridge for children who already fear the dark. How to use a color-changing light to signal when it's time to sleep and when it's time to wake up. If your child has started asking for more lights at bedtime, or you're setting up a nursery and wondering whether to include a night light, this episode offers practical ways to support healthy sleep habits and help your child feel more confident at bedtime. Resources mentioned: Hatch 🎉 All of our workshops and programs are 50% off this week! See everything in the sale here. Use code FIVEYEARS at checkout. The sale ends Sunday, November 8 at 11:59pm ET and doesn't apply to programs or workshops you've already purchased. Chapter Markers: 00:00 Navigating Sibling Competition in Sports 02:57 The Importance of Darkness for Sleep 05:55 Understanding Fear of the Dark 08:50 Responding to Children's Fear of the Dark 12:10 Transitioning from Night Lights to Sleep Lights 17:12 Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways on Sleep and Fear Click here to listen to the episode on YouTube Give your child the gift of better sleep. Allison's free, age-specific guides show you exactly how many hours of rest kids need to grow, learn, and thrive—no matter their age. Get your free copy now: 0-2 Years Old or 3 to 10 years old From baby sleep to toddler sleep, daycare naps to sleep training—How Long 'Til Bedtime? is the podcast for parents who want practical, guilt-free sleep tips they can actually use. Hosted by pediatric sleep coach Allison Egidi, each episode delivers real solutions for every stage—from navigating newborn sleep struggles and weaning night feedings to helping your 3-year-old fall asleep independently (and stay asleep!). Whether you're trying to make sense of daycare sleep patterns, craving your evenings back, or simply need a working mom podcast to keep you grounded, you're in the right place. Want more from Allison? Sign up here to get her weekly email with podcast updates and other helpful parenting topics. Enjoying How Long 'Til Bedtime? Your rating and review help Allison reach and support more parents. On Apple Podcasts: Click here, scroll to the bottom, rate the show, and tap "Write a Review." On Spotify: Click here to leave a rating or review. Don't miss an episode—subscribe so you're always up to date! Connect with Allison: Instagram | Facebook | Website | YouTube
