Expand the description and view the text of the steps for this how-to video.

Check out Howcast for other do-it-yourself videos from montykates and more videos in the Sleep and Children category.

You can contribute too! Create your own DIY guide at http://www.howcast.com/videos/​new or produce your own Howcast spots with the Howcast Filmmakers Program at http://www.howcast.com/filmmak​ers/apply.

Persistent nightmares could mean that your child is feeling stressed or worried about something -- like starting preschool or being potty-trained. Help your child to deal with whatever is bothering him and you'll both sleep tight.

To complete this How-To you will need:

A reassuring demeanor
"Anti-Monster Spray"
A comforting toy or object
A nightlight or flashlight
A calming bedtime ritual

Step 1: Go to your child

Go to your child as soon as you hear him calling. Hold him close. Tell him, over and over if necessary and in a reassuring tone of voice, "Mommy's here," or "Mommy and Daddy are here."

Step 2: Tread lightly

Don't push him to tell you about the nightmare; he may get upset all over again. But if he wants to talk about it, listen sympathetically.

Tip: Bad dreams are especially scary for kids under five, who can't tell the difference between what's real and what's not.

Step 3: Sweep the room

If he's worried about something in his room -- a monster in the closet, a dragon under his bed -- get rid of the beast by sweeping under the bed and then spritzing the room with a water bottle marked "Anti-Monster Spray."

Step 4: Give him something to cuddle with

Give him something to cuddle with.

Step 5: Wait until he's asleep

Turn on a nightlight or give your child a flashlight to keep by his side. Once your child is calm, stay with him until he goes back to sleep, or is close to drifting off.

Tip: Don't offer to sleep alongside him, and don't invite him into your bed. You'll just start a bad habit that will become a nightmare for you.

Step 6: Avoid scary images before bedtime

To keep the nightmares at bay in the future, don't expose your child to scary images—before bedtime. Establish a calming and regular bedtime routine.

Thanks for watching How To Calm a Child Who Is Having a Nightmare! If you enjoyed this video subscribe to the Howcast YouTube channel! http://www.youtube.com/subscri​ption_center?add_user=howcast