Does Your Child Need a Nightlight: How to Decide

Ah, bedtime. That sweet moment when the kids are finally asleep, and you can sit down with a warm drink – or a glass of wine – and finally catch up on the latest boxset you’ve been hearing all about, or just steal a moment of peace and quiet. 

But if your child is struggling to settle at night, you might find yourself wondering: Do they need a nightlight? 

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every child is different (as you’ve probably realised by now), but here are a few things to consider when deciding if a nightlight could help your little one sleep a little more peacefully. 

Is your child afraid of the dark? 

Some kids go through a phase where shadows and darkness suddenly become a bit spooky. If your child is telling you they’re scared or keeps asking for a light on, a nightlight could just be the perfect solution. It’s a gentle way to keep things reassuring without flooding their bedroom with brightness. 

Top tip: Choose a nightlight with a soft, warm glow — nothing too bright or blue-toned, as this can mess with melatonin production. 

Are you interrupting your child’s sleep? 

Parenting involves a lot of nighttime tiptoeing — checking in on them during the night, tucking them back in, or rescuing a teddy that has rolled off the bed. But if you’re having to use your phone as a torch or you’re flicking their main light on during these necessary tiptoeing interludes, that sudden brightness can wake them (and you) up more than needed.  

A nightlight may just provide you with enough light to sneak in and out like the ninja you are. 

How old is your child? 

For younger babies, experts often recommend keeping the room dark to encourage a strong day-night rhythm (1). But toddlers, preschoolers, and younger school-aged children might benefit from the extra comfort a nightlight can provide. This is especially true during that overactive imagination phase where shadows can start turning into monsters. 

What’s your child’s bedroom like? 

If your child’s room is already dimly lit — for example, with streetlights sneaking through the curtains — they might not need a nightlight. However, if when nighttime comes, it’s pitch-black and your child seems uneasy or prone to waking during the night, a nightlight may help to provide that extra sense of security. 

Does your child want a nightlight? 

Sometimes the simplest solution is just to ask! Older toddlers and preschoolers may have a clear preference on whether they want a nightlight or not. Let’s face it, by 2 years old, most children have preferences with foods, clothes, and toys – why not preferences towards a nightlight too?  

Some little ones love the idea of a nightlight; others will tell you they don’t need it. But letting them a say can ultimately help them feel in control of their bedtime routine (which might mean fewer bedtime battles too — win-win!). 

Picking the right nightlight 

If you do decide to invest in a nightlight, there are lots of great options out there to choose from. These include: 

• Plug-in nightlights: These types of children’s nightlights are great at providing a consistent, low-maintenance glow. 

• Portable nightlights: These are perfect for kids who like to wander in the night (or for those inevitable trips to the toilet). 

• Projection lights: Some kids love these but remember to keep it simple — too many moving patterns may end up being more stimulating than soothing. 

And – with whatever nightlight you end up choosing – remember to keep it dim. The main goal is to create a calm and cosy atmosphere in their bedroom, not to light it up like Blackpool Illuminations 

Nightlights for kids: our final thoughts 

At the end of the day, nightlights are all about finding the bedtime accessories that work for your child. Some kids find that total darkness is a must when falling asleep. Others will find comfort in the presence of a little bit of light. If a nightlight helps them settle — and gives you a bit more peace at bedtime — it’s definitely worth a try. 

So, if you’ve got a little one struggling to sleep, why not give a nightlight a go? It could just be the thing that helps the whole family get a better night’s sleep more consistently.  

Sources: 

1. https://takingcarababies.com/night-lights-and-baby-sleep