Night Terrors vs Nightmares: How to Tell the Difference and What to Do

Night terrors

Who: Most common in children aged 3–8. Affects about 3–6% of children. More common in boys.

When: Typically occur in the first 1–3 hours of sleep, during deep NREM sleep (non-dreaming sleep).

What you see: Your child may sit up, scream, have eyes open but glazed or unfocused, sweat, have a rapid heart rate, appear terrified, but is not awake. They do not recognise you, may push you away, and will have no memory of the event.

Duration: Usually 1–15 minutes. Ends abruptly, child falls back to deeply asleep.

What causes them: Sleep deprivation, fever, stress, irregular schedule, and genetics all play roles. They often run in families.

What to do during a night terror

• Do not wake your child: waking them can extend the event and cause confusion
• Stay calm and nearby: ensure they don't hurt themselves
• Do not restrain: this can make thrashing worse
• Do not talk or try to console: they cannot process it while in the event
• Wait it out: it will end on its own

What to do to prevent night terrors

• Ensure your child gets enough sleep (overtiredness is a major trigger)
• Keep a consistent sleep schedule, including weekends
• If night terrors occur at the same time each night, try scheduled awakenings: wake the child briefly about 30 minutes before the usual time for 7 nights

Nightmares

Who: Common in children of all ages, especially 3–6 years.

When: Occur in the second half of the night, during REM sleep (dreaming sleep).

What you see: Your child wakes fully, is frightened, can recall a scary dream, wants comfort, and knows who you are.

Duration: Child is awake, may take time to settle back to sleep.

What to do after a nightmare

• Go to them: presence alone is deeply reassuring
• Offer comfort: hold, soothe, calm voice
• Acknowledge the fear: "That sounds really scary"
• Keep lights low: don't "check for monsters" as this validates that monsters might be real
• A nightlight can help anxious children feel safer
• Stay until they're calm; don't rush

Preventing nightmares

• Avoid scary content (age-appropriate media)
• Address daytime stressors (nightmares often reflect anxiety)
• Maintain a calming bedtime routine

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The Childhood Journal provides general evidence-based information. Always consult your paediatrician for concerns specific to your child.