Night terrors is a term given to a toddler who screams during a sleep cycle. The child is not awake, but will usually be sitting up or standing in their cot/bed, eyes open (but not seeing) and really screaming incessantly. Pretty scarey for the Parent really. But what is an effective approach to deal with these Night Terrors?
Some children experience nightmares at a early age. Usually around the 18 month mark. Having the child explain the dream does NOT help the child, especially if they're still sleep. The content of the nightmare is irrelevant, obviously the child is reacting to some fear they've created in their mind.
Dealing with Night Terrors:
It has been my experience that holding the child and call their name loudly, to wake them, stops them from living the fear. Once they're awake you can calm and reassure them. When they are calm they can then go back to sleep in peace. Don't quiz the child, just calmly hug and resettle them.
Clients have said that they were told NOT to wake the child. I know this to be bad advice. When my child lived through night terrors my approach of waking, reassuring, then settling calmed her beautifully. I also receive frequent feedback from my clients, all with positive results. As a parent, you need to stay calm (not easy to do) and allow the little one to sense your peace by touch and voice.
Seeking the cause:
I believe night terrors do not happen without a cause. Children are not mature enough to see and understand their happenings and surroundings as we do. In trying to pin point the cause I've found it helpful to reflect on what happened during the previous day. I never assume the child sees the daily life as adults see it.
Some probable causes:
- Has there been pain?
- What do they watch on TV and how much?
- Being overtired - going to bed according to clock time, not 'body' clock time.
- Teething issues can affect some children.
- Daycare - has anything happened to worry them? Any bullying?
- Food intolerances?
- Family dynamics - children pick up on our behaviours too. Is there tension in the household? How relaxed and secure are the parents?
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