Night Terrors: Tips for Parents on Soothing Toddlers

What Are Night Terrors?

Night terrors are a type of sleep disturbance that commonly affects children. They are characterised by episodes of intense fear and terror during sleep, accompanied by physical symptoms such as rapid heart rate, sweating, and rapid breathing. These episodes typically occur during the first few hours of sleep and can last for several minutes.

Unlike nightmares, night terrors are not dreams. They are classified as a parasomnia, meaning they are disturbances that occur during sleep. Night terrors in preschoolers can be quite alarming for parents to witness, as children may scream, thrash around, or appear to be in a state of panic. However, it's important to note that children experiencing night terrors are not fully awake and often have no recollection of the episode in the morning.

It is estimated that about 5% of children aged 2-12 years (pre- and primary-school age) have night terrors. They tend to be more common in preschool-aged children 2-4 years old, with the frequency of night terrors decreasing as children get older. Night terrors in preschoolers can occur sporadically or in clusters and usually resolve on their own without any long-term effects. If you are concerned about your child’s terrors, always seek healthcare professional guidance.

Common night terror symptoms

Night terrors, also known as sleep terrors, can be a distressing experience for both children and their parents. These episodes, which typically occur during deep sleep, are characterised by intense fear and are often accompanied by physical displays. Although night terror symptoms can differ between children, there are some symptoms common in most children who experience them. Understanding the symptoms of night terrors in preschoolers can help parents better support their child through these episodes.

During a night terror, symptoms a child may display can include any of the following signs or behaviours:

• Sudden waking with a piercing scream, often accompanied by rapid breathing and a racing heart. Your child may appear to be in a state of agitation, sweating profusely, and have dilated pupils. It is not uncommon for them to be unresponsive or unable to recognise their parents or caregivers.
• These episodes can occur sporadically or happen frequently, with some children experiencing them multiple times a night. For most kids though, they tend to be brief, usually lasting between 5 and 20 minutes. However, it is important to note that the duration can vary from child to child.
• Sleep disturbances and daytime fatigue can be common and can extend to affect your child’s mood, behaviour and ability to concentrate. Additionally, parents may also experience distress and exhaustion from witnessing their child's night terrors.

If your child is experiencing night terrors, it is crucial to create a calming and safe environment during and after an episode. Reassure your child that they are safe and loved and try not to wake them abruptly as it may increase their confusion and disorientation. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and ensuring that your child gets enough sleep can also help reduce the frequency of night terrors.

What is the difference between night terrors and nightmares?

Night terrors usually occur in the first few hours of sleep when your child is ‘stuck’ between a deep and light sleep stage. They might seem awake as they can sit up, scream or open their eyes, but their mind is not.  In contrast, nightmares are scary dreams that tend to occur after midnight in the second half of their sleep, when your child is in a light sleep stage and is the same time most dreaming occurs. During a nightmare, your child will fully wake up and will usually remember the next morning that they woke up.

For some tips on dealing with general sleep issues that are not related to night terrors or nightmares, check out our article ‘How to Handle Toddler Sleep Problems’.

What causes night terrors? 

While night terrors are a common sleep disturbance in children, what causes night terrors is not always straight forward or common between kids. And although they are not fully understood, there are several factors that may contribute to their occurrence.

Potential factors that can make toddlers and preschoolers more susceptible to night terrors

• Psychological factors may include anxiety, stress, and trauma.
• Physiological factors can include being unwell, fever, or irregular sleep patterns.
• Genetics and family history. Kids who have other family members who experience night terrors are more likely to experience them themselves. This indicates a potential genetic predisposition.
• Stress and sleep deprivation. High levels of stress, whether from personal or environmental factors, can increase the likelihood of experiencing night terrors. Similarly, insufficient sleep or disrupted sleep patterns can make your little one more susceptible to these episodes.

While night terrors in preschoolers can be distressing, it's important to remember that they are a relatively common occurrence and part of normal development. If your child experiences night terrors, it's recommended to establish a regular sleep routine, create a calm sleep environment, and manage stress levels. If the frequency or intensity of night terrors becomes concerning, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide further guidance and support.

How to soothe my toddler during a night terror

Night terrors can be a distressing experience for both children and parents. Although they are often harmless and your child is unlikely to remember the next morning, it is important to know how to manage them effectively. Here are some tips to help you comfort your child during a night terror:

• Stay calm: It can be difficult to see your child in distress, but it is important to remain calm and composed. Your child may not be aware of your presence during a night terror, so it is best not to wake them up.
• Provide reassurance: Use a soothing and gentle voice to reassure your child that everything is okay. Let them know that you are there for them and that the night terror will pass.
• Avoid physical contact: While it may be tempting to hold or touch your child during a night terror, it is generally recommended to avoid physical contact. This can sometimes prolong the episode or cause confusion when your child wakes up.
• Establish a bedtime routine: Consistency is key when it comes to bedtime routines. Create a relaxing routine that includes activities such as reading a book, taking a warm bath, or listening to calming music.
• Ensure a comfortable sleep environment: Make sure your child's bedroom is quiet, dark, and at a comfortable temperature. Consider using a nightlight or white noise machine if it helps to create a soothing ambiance.
• Limit screen time: Avoid exposing your child to screens, such as TVs, tablets, or smartphones, before bedtime. The blue light emitted by these devices can interfere with their sleep and contribute to night terrors.

Check out our article on toddler sleep for more advice on how to soothe your toddler back to sleep.

How can I stop night terrors for my toddler?

Night terrors are usually a normal part of childhood and tend to resolve on their own as your child grows. However, if you’re finding your child’s night terrors are reoccurring and significantly impacting their sleep, it’s important to make a time with your family GP for further advice and support.

Ways to help prevent night terrors from happening again

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep: Provide your child with enough opportunities to get their required sleep in over the day. This could mean holding onto daytime sleeps for longer while they transition through their night terrors, and ensuring they get to bed at night at a reasonable time. The amount of sleep required over the day will vary depending on their age.
• Maintain a consistent sleep schedule: Help your child establish a regular sleep pattern by ensuring they go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends.
• Encourage relaxation techniques: Teach your child simple relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualisation, to help them calm down before bedtime.
• Consider a nightlight or comfort object: Some children find comfort in having a nightlight or a special toy or blanket to sleep with. These can provide a sense of security and help reduce night terrors.
• Optimise sleep hygiene: A warm bath before bedtime can not only help relax your child, but removing the dirt and sweat from their busy day can also help them have a comfortable sleep. Washing sheets and pillowcases regularly can also improve their sleep environment and experience. 

When should I speak to a specialist? 

While night terrors can be a normal part of a child's development, there are certain indicators that may suggest it's time to seek professional help. Most children that experience night terrors are between the age of 2-4 years and have grown out of these by the time they’re at school. If your child's night terrors are occurring frequently, lasting for an extended period, or causing significant distress, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional.

There are various types of specialists who can provide assistance in managing night terrors. Your first point of contact could be your child's paediatrician or GP. They can evaluate your child's overall health and rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the night terrors. Regularly seeing a trusted doctor to ensure you have a professional opinion on what is causing your child’s night terrors may be required.

When it comes to treatment options, there are several approaches that professionals may recommend. In some cases, your doctor may refer you to a child psychologist or a sleep specialist. Child psychologists can help identify any emotional or psychological factors that may be triggering the night terrors. Sleep specialists, on the other hand, are experts in diagnosing and treating sleep disorders, including night terrors.

As parents, it’s important to keep yourself healthy and well also. Establishing a consistent bedtime routine and ensuring a calm sleep environment for you will also have positive impacts on your little one.  Additionally, providing a balanced diet, regular exercise, and engaging in quality family time can enhance your and your child's overall well-being.

Check out our article ‘How to be a confident parent’ to get tips that will help you feel a little more in control on your parenting journey.

Frequently asked questions about night terrors

What can cause night terrors in toddlers?

Night terrors in toddlers can be caused by various factors such as insufficient sleep, irregular sleep schedules, stress, anxiety, or underlying medical conditions. Additionally, genetics, developmental changes, and overstimulation before bedtime can contribute to night terrors. It's important to create a calming bedtime routine and ensure a comfortable sleep environment for your toddler. If night terrors persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for further evaluation and guidance.

How do you calm a toddler with night terrors? 

To calm a toddler experiencing night terrors, it's important to create a safe sleep environment and ensure your child's physical safety without waking them. Avoid trying to soothe or reason with them during the episode, as they may not be fully awake. Instead, gently guide them back to bed if they are moving around to prevent injury. After the episode, provide comfort and reassurance if your little one is upset, but avoid discussing the night terror in detail as it may cause distress. If night terrors persist, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable for further guidance.

How to tell the difference between night terrors and nightmares in toddlers?

To differentiate between night terrors and nightmares in toddlers, consider the timing and behaviour. Night terrors usually occur during the first few hours of sleep, with the child appearing awake but unresponsive and inconsolable. In contrast, nightmares happen later in the night during light REM sleep, with the child often waking up scared but responsive and seeking comfort.

How to prevent night terrors?

It’s not always easy to know when your little one will have a night terror so preventing them is more about creating a calming and safe sleep environment on a regular basis. Establishing a calming bedtime routine, ensuring your little one gets adequate sleep, and creating a comfortable and hygienic sleep environment will help. Additionally, minimising stress and anxiety, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding overstimulation before bedtime can help reduce the likelihood of night terrors. If night terrors persist, consulting a healthcare professional for personalised advice is recommended.

How to stop night terrors?

As night terrors are very much a normal part of child development, stopping them is tricky. What you can control are things like creating a calming bedtime routine, ensuring your child gets adequate sleep, and maintaining a comfortable sleep environment. Additionally, minimising stress and anxiety, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and avoiding overstimulation before bedtime can help reduce the likelihood of night terrors. Consider talking to a healthcare professional for guidance if night terrors are persisting and affecting your child’s development.