Night Terrors in Kids: What Every Parent Must Know!
Ankita Rai | Tue, 11 Feb 2025
If your little one wakes up crying in the middle of the night, looking terrified but unable to recall what scared them, you might be dealing with something called night terrors. These are not just bad dreams-they're much more intense and can leave parents feeling helpless.
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Nightmares vs. Night Terrors: What's the Difference?
A nightmare typically wakes a child up, and they can describe what frightened them. Night terrors, however, occur during deep sleep, leaving kids disoriented, panicked, and sometimes even screaming—but with no memory of the event the next morning.
Signs Your Child Might Be Experiencing Night Terrors
night terror in kid
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Screams, cries, or talks incoherently while asleep
Sweating, rapid breathing, or fast heartbeat
Completely unaware of your presence
Falls back asleep as if nothing happened
Why Do Night Terrors Occur?
scared child
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Being overtired – Lack of sleep makes them more likely.
Stress or anxiety – Major life changes can cause these episodes.
New sleeping environment – A hotel stay or a new bedroom can disrupt sleep.
Illness or fever – A sick body can lead to restless sleep.
Family history – If a parent had night terrors, the child might too.
How to Handle Night Terrors Like a Pro
night terror
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Don't Wake Them Up: Let the episode pass naturally.
Make Sleep a Priority: Overtired kids are more prone to night terrors.
Keep a Consistent Routine: Regular bedtime schedules help prevent sleep disturbances.
Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Blue light can disrupt their sleep schedule.
Most children outgrow night terrors. However, in case they do occur frequently or severely, see a doctor for advice. Otherwise, patience and a little bit of bedtime reassurance can make all the difference.
