1. Be patient  Many toddlers go through stages of being scared of the dark. At this age, they're still separating reality from their vivid imaginations2. Acknowledge your child's fear  Tell her you understand that the dark can be a scary place

to you what is real and what is just imaginary.Fear of the darkUse a night light to give a reassuring glow. Remember, too, that when lights do go out, absolute silence can be frightening. Your child may be happier if she can hear people moving about

Reverse the rolesFear of masks, or anyone in a costume – when someone is not what they seem – is common and unpredictable. So, if daddy in a Hallowe’en mask produces a scream, have him take it off, touch it, explore it then put it on to spook you

Starting school is always an emotional experience. Many children are thrilled by the prospect of uniforms and reading books; others find the whole idea terrifying. And some children simply refuse to go. Last year, my little boy Sam was never going

The Owl Who Was Afraid Of The Dark (picture book) by Jill Thomlinson (Egmont, £3.99)This classic tale has been soothing night-fearing children for generations and has even been reworked into a picture book for very young readers. Help to conquer

Gothic booksInto The Forest by Anthony Browne (Walker Books, £5.99)A fantastic book to put the fear into young children, while older ones will enjoy reading it for themselves. Playing on a young boy’s anxieties, Children’s Laureate Anthony Browne

Remember the tale of David, the humble little lad who triumphed over the giant Goliath? He fought valiantly against the odds, and is the sort of fearless hero that all children would love to emulate.Taking risks within safe boundaries and performing

fear of water is a common quirk of babyhood, especially around 15 months. Some children fear that they’ll be sucked down the plughole.More development tips by Junior:Five ways to soothe a stressed babyFive ways to teach children manners

21. Owl Babies by Martin Waddell and Patrick Benson (Walker, £4.99)Sarah, Percy and Bill wake up one night to find their mother isn’t there. Their loneliness makes them anxious and the fluffy white owls begin to fret, but are overcome with relief and joy when mummy owl comes back...

altercations with their peers.It is not just fussiness that stops your child clearing her plate at dinner, a toddler's stomach is usually only the size of a small fist.If bedtime is a battle with your toddler, you are not alone: 75 per cent of children under