Here's an actual bedtime conversation with my 5-year-old, many years ago. I know, I'm a terrible parent.
HE: Dad, I know I need to go to sleep, and I know this is kind of ridiculous, but I'm sort of afraid of bears.
ME: What do you mean?
HE: Well, I'm kind of afraid a bear will come through the window and get me.
ME: You're right, that is ridiculous. You know that bears go by smell, so it would go for your sister first.
HE: That's not really helping, Dad.
ME: Well, when was the last time you saw a bear in our town?
HE: Um, never.
ME: And how many of your friends have been attacked by bears?
HE: Um, none, I guess.
ME: And how many kids in our family have been eaten by bears?
HE: None?
ME: Well, actually, there was your brother Steve, but Mommy and I don't like to talk about him.
HE: MOMMY!!!!
