Sleep is essential for your child’s growth and development, but it can also come with its challenges. Two of the most common issues parents face are nightmares and night terrors. While they may seem similar, these sleep disturbances are very different and require different approaches.
Nightmares are vivid, scary dreams that occur during REM sleep, the lighter stage of sleep. Children who have nightmares often wake up feeling scared or upset and can usually remember what frightened them. They may call out for you, want reassurance and have trouble going back to sleep. Nightmares can be triggered by stress, over tiredness, scary content on screens or even changes in routine.
Night terrors, on the other hand, happen during deep non-REM sleep. They often look dramatic, with the child screaming, crying or moving around while still asleep. Unlike nightmares, children experiencing night terrors are not fully awake and usually do not remember the episode the next morning. Night terrors are more about the nervous system struggling to transition smoothly between sleep stages, and while they can be alarming for parents, they are generally harmless.
So how can you help? For nightmares, comfort and reassurance go a long way. Talk through the dream with your child, offer a night light or a calming bedtime routine to reduce fears before sleep. For night terrors, it is best not to wake the child. Instead, gently ensure they are safe, wait for the episode to pass and focus on maintaining a consistent bedtime schedule to reduce occurrences.
Creating a supportive sleep environment also makes a difference. A comfortable, breathable mattress like the Eco Kids mattress can help your child settle into deeper, more restorative sleep. Made with natural materials and strong spinal support, it provides a calm, safe space that supports healthy sleep habits and can help reduce sleep disruptions.
Understanding the difference between nightmares and night terrors empowers you to respond effectively and calmly. With patience, a soothing bedtime routine and a supportive sleep environment, your child can rest easier and wake up happier.
For more tips on creating the perfect sleep space, visit Eco Kids and discover how a healthier mattress can transform bedtime
