When it comes to the boogeyman, explanations (“Promise, it’s just a shadow”) don’t get you far. You’re still spending the night in his bed, snuggled up like a bodyguard.

Banish every fear (and sleep in your own room) by hanging Alphabetty Monster’s friendly beasts on the walls.

The charming art prints of ogres are the creations of local artist Deann Acton, who made her first alphabet monsters to keep her son amused on the changing table. Using letters, collage, freehand drawing, and computer illustration, the creatures keep little eyes looking with hidden birds, rocket ships, gears, and playful bits of text.

The series has a friend for every taste, including a pastel princess, DJ Monster Chill, and a whole bestiary inspired by famous artists like Frida Kahlo and Jean-Michel Basquiat. (We like Picasso, also known as Grrrnica Monster.)

Make no mistake: Despite their furry likability, they all have big teeth. Just in case you do forget to check under the bed.

Available online at etsy.com, $10-$15.

We found 60 more ways to dress up your nursery.

CREATE
Father’s Day Drop-In Art: StoryCubes
What: Minis pay tribute to Pop by making Dad’s Day greetings.
Why: It’s more than just a Hallmark moment.
When: Sun., 1-3 p.m.
Where: Contemporary Jewish Museum, Sala Webb Education Center, 736 Mission St., b/t 3rd & 4th Sts. (415-655-7800). Adults, $10; children, free.

SEE
Hairspray
What: Mountain Play Association presents the kitschy classic in the open-air theater atop Mount Tam.
Why: Get “Hello, Everybody” out of your head.
When: Sun., 2 p.m.
Where: Cushing Memorial Amphitheatre, 801 Panoramic Hwy., Mill Valley. Tickets at 415-383-1100 or online at mountainplay.org. Adults, $40; ages 4-21, $20; children under 4, free.

DECORATE
Restoration Hardware’s Flagship Baby & Child Gallery
What: The just-opened retail outlet has items like heirloom cribs, Belgian linen bedding, and Jameson and Flatiron desks that were previously available only online.
Why: Try before you buy.
When: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: The Village at Corte Madera, 1700 Redwood Hwy. (415-927-2659).

Photo: Courtesy of Deann Acton