Nightmares: what are they and how to help your child
Sutter Children's Center, Sacramento
This health tip is brought to you by Sutter Children's Center, Sacramento.
Most all children – both boys and girls - will experience nightmares at some point in their childhood. If your child is experiencing a nightmare, he will be awake and alert. He may be crying, fearful and have trouble going back to sleep. Most often, children remember their dream. Be careful not to confuse nightmares with night terrors which are less common. When a child is experiencing a night terror he will be thrashing around violently, perhaps screaming all while they are still asleep. With a night terror, your child will go back to peaceful sleep and upon waking will not remember the episode at all.
Why do nightmares occur?
Nightmares are most common between the ages of 2-6 years old because this is the age when normal fears develop and imaginations blossom. The nightmare may be the result of listening to a scary story or watching a scary television show; remember what is scary to your child may not seem scary to you. Anxiety or stress - like when starting school, moving to a new house or a big boy bed, and even potty training - may also lead to nightmares.
How to help your child
If your child is experiencing a nightmare go to him. Hold him and reassure him that he is safe. If your child is able to, have him talk to you about his dream and fears. You may also want to show your child that there are no monsters hiding in his room and that he is safe. Sometimes having a water bottle filled with “monster repellent” - a.k.a. - water that he can spray around his room will put his mind at ease. Tuck him back into bed and make sure he has his favorite stuffed to cuddle, a nightlight is on and let him know you are right down the hall.
There is really no way to prevent nightmares, but having a regular sleep routine may help. Before bed read happy upbeat stories, limit television and reassure your child that he is safe. If you feel your child is experiencing some anxiety, try talking to him about it during the day. If the nightmares persist and your child is having trouble functioning during the day or extremely afraid to go to sleep, call your doctor.
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