A parent's guide to night terrors

What are night terrors?

Night terrors are sleep issues that cause kicking, screaming, panicking, or crying even though the child is still asleep. Children with night terrors may look awake and usually won’t respond or acknowledge those around them. Night terrors are common in toddlers and preschoolers.

Signs of night terrors

• Uncontrolled crying
• Breathing fast
• Screaming
• Thrashing and kicking
• Will not respond when spoken to
• Will not acknowledge people around them
• No memory of the night terror in the morning

Causes of night terrors

• Genetics
• Poor sleep
• Full bladder
• Fever

How to manage a night terror

1. Remain calm and confident, even if the night terror is frightening.
2. Do not wake your child during a night terror, which can cause confusion, upset, and overtiredness.
3. Ensure your child is safe by removing anything around them that could cause harm.
4. Wait it out until the episode passes.

How to prevent night terrors

• Establish a consistent sleep schedule and bedtime routine
• Ensure your child is getting enough sleep
• Avoid screen time before bed
• If potty-trained, have them use the bathroom before bed to avoid discomfort from a full bladder

Are night terrors different from nightmares?

Yes, nightmares are scary dreams that occur during sleep. Unlike night terrors, nightmares don’t involve intense physical reactions like kicking or screaming, and your child may recall the nightmare or bad dream upon waking. When your child has a nightmare, you can comfort them to make them feel safe and secure. When your child is ready, put them back to bed.

Sleepwalking

Sleepwalking occurs when children are sleeping. A sleepwalking child may have a blank stare, not acknowledge or respond to others, and it may be difficult to wake them up.  Most sleepwalkers do not recall getting out of bed and walking around when they wake up.

How to manage sleepwalking

• Ensure your child is safe by removing anything around them that could cause harm, like tripping hazards or sharp objects.
• Make sure your child cannot access unsafe areas like the stairwell, bathroom, or doors that lead outside.
• Do not wake a sleepwalking child.
• Gently guide your child back to bed.  

When to see a sleep specialist

Consult your local or Summer Health sleep specialist for additional guidance if you notice a consistent pattern of nightmares or night terrors. They can help you adjust your bedtime routine, sleep schedule, and sleep environment to promote better sleep.