TinyStepper
Parent and child clapping hands together mid-nursery-rhyme on a rug

Brave Monster Torch Hunt

Hunt for friendly 'monsters' (stuffed animals) hidden in a dim room using a torch — makes darkness feel safe and exciting.

Activity details

2y–4y10 minsmediumindoorStuffed AnimalsTorch

Instructions

Get ready
  • While your child is in another room, hide 4-5 stuffed animals around a bedroom — behind curtains, under pillows, on a shelf.
  • Dim the lights (do not make it fully dark — a nightlight or hallway light is fine).
  1. While your child is in another room, hide 4-5 stuffed animals around a bedroom — behind curtains, under pillows, on a shelf.
  2. Dim the lights (do not make it fully dark — a nightlight or hallway light is fine).
  3. Give your child a torch and say: 'The friendly monsters are hiding! They need us to find them!'
  4. Walk together, shining the torch around the room.
  5. When they spot one, celebrate: 'You found Bear Monster! He was hiding behind the curtain!'
  6. Give each monster a cuddle and a name. They are friendly, not scary.
  7. Find all the monsters and line them up: 'We rescued them all! They are not scared anymore.'
  8. Let your child hide the monsters for you to find — being the hider builds further confidence.

Parent tip

Set out stuffed animals and torch before inviting your toddler in so the first minute feels smooth.

Parent and child sitting face-to-face laughing together in a warm shared moment

What success looks like

Back-and-forth between you — words, gestures, shared pretend. Connection is the real outcome here.

Hide 4-5 stuffed animals around a dimly lit room and give your child a torch to find them. Each 'monster' is friendly — they wave, they need a hug, they are hiding because THEY are scared. This reframes darkness from something frightening to something adventurous, and gives the child control (they hold the light).

Why it helps

Fear of the dark typically develops between 2 and 4 years as imaginative thinking matures — children can now imagine threats they cannot see. Giving them control of the light source (the torch) and framing the darkness as an adventure rather than a threat builds coping strategies. Play England's research shows that child-led brave play reduces anxiety more effectively than reassurance alone. NSPCC guidance highlights that children who feel emotionally safe and supported are better equipped to explore, learn, and build healthy relationships.

Variations

  • Add glow sticks near the hidden animals — they glow in the dim light, creating a trail of clues.
  • Tell a story as you go: 'Monster Bear lost his friends in the dark forest. Can we help him find them?'
  • Gradually make the room darker over multiple sessions — building tolerance naturally.

Safety tips

  • Never force a child into a dark room — keep lighting at a level they are comfortable with.
  • Use a child-friendly torch that is not too bright — avoid shining in eyes.
  • Stay close throughout — your physical presence is the primary source of safety.

Want to try another?

Brave Bear Torch Walk

Get weekly activity ideas for your toddler

One email a week with practical toddler activities, behaviour tips, and developmental insights. No spam, unsubscribe any time.