If you’ve ever been startled awake by your toddler crying, screaming, or thrashing around at night, you’ve probably witnessed a night terror. It’s different from the usual bad dream — and while it can be frightening to watch, it’s usually nothing to worry about. Most children eventually outgrow these episodes as they get older.
That said, it’s completely natural to feel unsettled when it happens. To help you better understand and manage night terrors, here’s what causes them, how they differ from nightmares, and what you can do to keep nights calmer for everyone.
What Are Night Terrors?
Night terrors are harmless sleep disturbances that occur when a child is caught between being asleep and awake. During an episode, your toddler might cry, scream, kick, talk nonsensically, or even try to get out of bed.
They usually happen early in the night, often within the first few hours after your child falls asleep — sometimes before you’ve even gone to bed yourself.
A typical episode may last under a minute, but occasionally it can continue for up to 30–45 minutes. Even though your child’s eyes may be open, they aren’t actually awake and won’t remember anything the next morning.
Common signs of night terrors include:
- Sudden screaming or crying
- Sitting up or jumping out of bed
- Fast breathing, sweating, or shaking
- Kicking or pushing away comfort
- Looking scared or confused but not responding
- Sleepwalking or running around
Night Terrors vs. Nightmares: What’s the Difference?
Nightmares and night terrors can look similar, but they happen at different stages of sleep.
Nightmares occur later in the night during REM (dream) sleep. Your child will usually wake up fully, remember the bad dream, and might cling to you for comfort.
Night terrors, on the other hand, happen earlier in the night during deep, non-REM sleep. Your toddler may seem awake but isn’t. Once the episode ends, they settle back to sleep quickly and remember nothing in the morning.
While nightmares are common in most kids, night terrors occur in only about 3–6% of children — most often between ages 4 and 12, though they can start as early as 18 months.
What Causes Night Terrors in Toddlers?
Experts believe night terrors happen when the central nervous system becomes overactive during deep sleep. A few common triggers include:
- Stress or anxiety: Big life changes like starting school or welcoming a new sibling can spark sleep disruptions.
- Overtiredness: A lack of consistent rest or a late bedtime can increase the likelihood of night terrors.
- Illness or fever: Being unwell or taking certain medications may interfere with normal sleep cycles.
- Family history: Night terrors or sleepwalking often run in families.
- Sleep disorders: Conditions like sleep apnea can sometimes contribute.
- Caffeine: Too much chocolate, soda, or other caffeinated foods may also play a role.
Simple Ways to Reduce Night Terrors
The good news is that night terrors usually fade within a few weeks. In the meantime, here’s how to keep things calm and safe:
- Stay calm. As frightening as it seems, your child isn’t aware of what’s happening. Sit close, stay patient, and wait for it to pass.
- Don’t try to wake them. Shaking or shouting may confuse or upset them further. Let the episode end naturally.
- Reassure and comfort afterward. Once they settle, speak softly, offer a cuddle, and let them drift back to sleep.
- Keep the room safe. Remove any sharp objects nearby and use baby gates near stairs if your child tends to move around during an episode.
- Stick to a bedtime routine. Consistency helps. A warm bath, story, and early bedtime can reduce fatigue and anxiety.
- Inform caregivers. Let grandparents, babysitters, or teachers know if night terrors occur so they’re prepared.
- Try a “scheduled awakening.” If the terrors tend to happen at the same time each night, gently wake your child 15–30 minutes beforehand. This can reset their sleep cycle.
- Manage stress. Talk through any daytime worries and keep bedtime calm and predictable.
- Avoid caffeine before bed. Skip sugary treats, chocolate, or fizzy drinks in the evening.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
Keep a short diary of your child’s sleep patterns — bedtime, naps, how long it takes to fall asleep, and any recent stress or changes at home. If night terrors last longer than 30 minutes, involve physical stiffening or jerky movements, or happen frequently, speak with your pediatrician.
Your doctor may check for sleep issues like enlarged tonsils or recommend a sleep specialist if needed.
Final Thoughts
Night terrors can be alarming, but they’re rarely harmful and tend to fade as your child’s nervous system matures. The best thing you can do is stay calm, keep your little one safe, and ensure they’re getting enough rest and comfort.
With time — and a few consistent routines — your nights (and theirs) will be peaceful again.