Lately, my 3-year-old has been waking up almost every night, saying he had a nightmare or that he’s scared of the dark. Sometimes he can’t even tell me what’s wrong, but I can see the fear in his eyes. I’m starting to wonder if I’m missing something or if this is just a phase. It’s exhausting for both of us, and I hate seeing him like this.
My LO went through this exact same thing around 3. The random nighttime fears were heartbreaking. I remember sitting on their bed at 2 AM, holding their hand, trying not to cry myself because I was so tired. Just know you’re not alone, mama, and this too shall pass (hopefully sooner than later 
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We had this exact issue with my daughter at 3. What worked for us was a bedtime routine overhaul. We started with 30 minutes of “wind-down time” before bed, dim lights, no screens, just stories and cuddles. I also added a nightlight and a special stuffed animal that “protected” her from bad dreams. A white noise machine helped too! It wasn’t instant, but within a week, she was waking up much less.
Ugh, I totally feel for you. My little guy was like this, and the exhaustion is no joke. I don’t have advice, just solidarity. Some nights I was like, “Will I ever sleep again??” I hope you both get some rest soon!
This might be developmental. Around 3, kids’ imaginations explode, which is awesome, but it also means they can imagine scary things now. Consistency helps, keep the bedtime routine the same every night, and maybe introduce a “worry jar” where he can “put” his fears before bed. Oh, and talk to your pediatrician if it’s persistent, just in case.
Omg, toddlers and sleep are such a wild ride, right? My kid went through a phase where they made me “check for dragons” under the bed every night. I mean, where do they even come up with this stuff?? Hope your LO finds their chill soon.
I remember those days well, and I promise, it’s just a phase. My oldest went through the same thing, nightmares, the works. It felt never-ending, but we tried to make nighttime less “scary” by singing a calming song every night and talking about happy things before sleep. He’s 9 now and sleeps like a teenager. You’ve got this!
My son’s been doing something similar lately, too, waking up scared, sometimes crying. Do you think it’s the change in seasons or something? I swear, this started right when the weather shifted here. What’s your bedtime routine like?
Thank you all so much for your replies! It really helps to hear that we’re not alone. I think I’ll try adding a nightlight and maybe the “monster spray” idea (he’ll love that). Fingers crossed we get some sleep soon because I feel like a zombie right now. Appreciate all the tips and solidarity 
!