Night Terrors (much less common than nightmares) occur during non-REM sleep, when we are not dreaming, so your child will not remember the terror and will likely not recognize you during it, since he/she is only partially awake. Terrors can last around 5-15 minutes and usually occur within several hours after falling asleep. The most common risk factors is being overtired. Some other risk factors include sleep apnea, stress, illness or high fever, and irregular sleep schedules. When a child is having a night terror you can offer quiet reassurance and stay close by so that you can make sure your child is safe (from moving about), but it is best to not interfere/wake the child as that can prolong the terror or frighten your child. Making sure your child is not overtired or stressed can help lessen the likelihood of night terrors. Children typically outgrow night terrors, but they can last till adolescence.
If your child is having nightmares or night terrors and your family needs further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact Rest Well Baby for more information.
www.restwellbaby.com