Recently, during a well-child visit, a parent's concern was about night terrors. After chatting, I realized this little one was having nightmares and not night terrors. Do you know the difference?
What Are Night Terrors?
Now, personally, I believe a night terror would be scary for a parent to see. Imagine running into your child's room because you heard a scream. You reach their room, and they are sitting up and screaming. But the kicker is that they seem asleep. Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, typically occur during the deep, non-REM stage in the early hours of sleep. The kiddo may scream, thrash, or appear panicked and frightened but not fully awake. They have no idea or memory of it when you try to talk about it at the breakfast table.
Signs of Night Terrors:
- Occur in the first few hours after falling asleep
- Your child may scream, cry, thrash, or seem panicked
- Sweating, rapid heartbeat, and dilated pupils
- They don't respond to comfort and may seem unaware of your presence
- They often resolve on their own within a few minutes
Night terrors are more common in children ages 3 to 8 and often run in families. They may be triggered by irregular sleep schedules, stress, or overtiredness (for example, missing their daily naps). Stay calm during a night terror episode, try not to wake them, and gently guide them back to bed.
What Are Nightmares?
Now, nightmares; I am sure we all had one before. I remember a vivid, recurring nightmare of my youth. I do not remember how old I was, but I was fascinated with Sesame Street at the time. My little self was scared of Count von Count or Count Dracula! Count Dracula was a constant Muppet character whose appearance was similar to a Vampire. His primary role was to help you learn how to count, and his catchphrase is, "Greetings! I am The Count. They call me the Count because I love to count things". He counted anything and everything, regardless of size or amount, to annoy other characters. Whenever he finished counting, he would make his iconic "Ah-Ah-Ah!" staccato laugh with a backdrop of a thunderstorm roll sound. He was very friendly, and I had no idea why I was scared of him. I used to dream Count Dracula would come into my room at night. I was terrified and begged my mother for a night light. Only then did I realize Count Dracula was my mother! My mother used to come into my room once I was asleep to make sure my covers were still okay. Kids' nightmares may be based on anything, as you can see.
Nightmares, unlike night terrors, occur during REM sleep, usually in the latter half of the night. They're essentially scary dreams that can wake children up, leaving them frightened and often able to remember vivid details of what happened. Common causes include stressful events, exposure to scary stories or images, and general anxiety. Nightmares and Night terrors are common around 3 to 6 years of age. Help them with comfort and reassurance. Let them know they are safe.
Signs of Nightmares:
- Happen in the later part of the night
- Your child wakes up scared and alert
- They can often recall the details of the dream
- They respond to comfort and reassurance
- Your child may be afraid to go back to sleep
Reducing Night Terrors and Nightmares:
Establish a Consistent Bedtime Routine: Routines can help a child feel secure and
ready for restful sleep.
2. Create a Soothing Sleep Environment: A cool, quiet, and comfortable room can help prevent sleep disturbances. A nightlight can provide additional comfort.
3. Limit Stimulants Before Bedtime: Avoid stimulating activities like screen time, scary stories, or intense play before bed. This gives the brain a chance to wind down.
4. Encourage Relaxation Techniques: For older children, deep breathing, visualization, or gentle stretching can help release tension and ease them into sleep.
5. Address Daytime Stress: If your child seems anxious or stressed, talk to them during the day about any worries they might have.
Remember, most children grow out of these nighttime episodes as they get older. In the meantime, your comfort and calm presence go a long way in helping them navigate the world of sleep. If there is no change after several weeks; give me a call or talk to your child’s Pediatrician.
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