Night terrors can be a distressing experience for both toddlers and their parents. Unlike nightmares, which happen during light sleep, night terrors occur during deep sleep and often involve intense crying, thrashing, or fear while your toddler is still asleep. It’s important to know that night terrors are not harmful and most toddlers don’t remember them the next day. However, there are steps you can take to help manage night terrors and make your toddler feel more secure. Here’s what you can do about night terrors in toddlers.
1. Understand the Difference Between Nightmares and Night Terrors
It’s easy to confuse night terrors with nightmares, but they are different. Nightmares usually occur during the REM stage of sleep, and your child may wake up and remember the scary dream. Night terrors, on the other hand, happen during deep sleep, and your toddler may seem awake but be unaware of your presence. They usually don’t remember the episode the next morning.
2. Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance
During a night terror, your toddler may cry, scream, or appear frightened, but they are not fully awake. The best thing you can do is stay calm and avoid trying to wake them up. Waking them can sometimes make the episode worse. Instead, gently reassure them by staying close, speaking softly, or offering a comforting touch. Most night terrors will pass on their own within a few minutes.
3. Keep a Consistent Sleep Routine
A consistent bedtime routine can help reduce the likelihood of night terrors. Toddlers who are overtired or have irregular sleep schedules are more prone to night terrors. Try to ensure that your child gets enough rest each night by sticking to a regular bedtime routine and providing calming activities like reading a book or taking a bath before bed. This can help promote more restful sleep.
4. Create a Calm Sleep Environment
Creating a calm and comfortable sleep environment can help reduce night terrors. Make sure your toddler’s room is quiet, cool, and dark. A nightlight or white noise machine can help create a soothing atmosphere that promotes better sleep. Avoid stimulating activities before bed, such as screen time or active play, which can make it harder for your toddler to wind down.
5. Monitor for Triggers
Sometimes night terrors are triggered by changes in routine, stress, or even illness. If your toddler has recently gone through a big change, such as starting daycare, moving to a new home, or experiencing a growth spurt, they may be more susceptible to night terrors. Keep an eye on potential triggers and try to provide extra comfort and reassurance during these times.
6. Keep Your Toddler Safe
During a night terror, your toddler may move around or thrash in bed, so it’s important to ensure their safety. If your child is in a toddler bed, make sure the room is baby-proofed to prevent any injuries. Remove sharp objects, block access to stairs, and use bed rails if necessary. Staying close during an episode can also help prevent your toddler from getting out of bed and wandering around.
7. Avoid Waking Your Toddler During a Night Terror
It’s tempting to try to wake your toddler during a night terror, but this can often make the episode worse and confuse them further. Instead of waking them, let the night terror run its course while you stay nearby to ensure their safety. Most episodes last between 5 and 15 minutes and will resolve on their own.
8. Track Sleep Patterns
If night terrors are happening frequently, it may be helpful to track your toddler’s sleep patterns. Keeping a sleep diary can help you identify any patterns or triggers that could be contributing to the night terrors. If you notice that the episodes happen around the same time each night, you can try gently waking your child 15 minutes before the expected time to disrupt the sleep cycle and prevent the night terror.
9. When to Consult a Pediatrician
While night terrors are usually harmless and something toddlers outgrow, it’s a good idea to consult your pediatrician if the episodes are frequent or severe. Your doctor can help rule out any underlying medical conditions and offer additional advice on managing night terrors. If your child’s night terrors are affecting their sleep quality or causing significant stress, seeking professional guidance can provide peace of mind.
10. Be Patient and Supportive
Night terrors can be unsettling, but it’s important to remember that they are typically a phase that most toddlers outgrow. Be patient with your child and offer comfort when needed. As your toddler’s brain continues to develop and they settle into a more consistent sleep routine, night terrors will likely become less frequent and eventually disappear altogether.
Conclusion
Night terrors in toddlers can be challenging, but they are usually not a cause for concern. By creating a calming sleep environment, maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, and staying calm during episodes, you can help manage night terrors and support your toddler’s sleep. Over time, night terrors will likely fade as your toddler grows and develops more regular sleep patterns.