Sleep problems can appear in different ways throughout childhood. Some children struggle to fall asleep, while others experience disrupted sleep during the night. Here is how common sleep problems present themselves in children, including night terrors, and what parents should know about each one.
In many cases, these sleep disturbances are temporary and linked to development, emotional changes or routine disruptions.
Common sleep problems in children include:
➤ Night terrors
➤ Nightmares
➤ Sleepwalking
➤ Bedwetting
➤ Breathing related sleep issues, such as sleep apnoea
Understanding the difference between these can help parents respond calmly and appropriately.
What are night terrors in children?
Night terrors, sometimes called sleep terrors, usually occur in the first half of the night, during deep non REM sleep. This is different from nightmares, which tend to happen later in the night during dream sleep.
During a night terror, your child may:
✔ Sit up suddenly and scream or cry
✔ Appear panicked or frightened
✔ Sweat, thrash or have a rapid heartbeat
✔ Be unresponsive to comfort or reassurance
✔ Have no memory of the event the next morning
Although it can feel alarming to witness, your child is not awake, even if their eyes are open. They are still in a deep sleep state.
Why do night terrors happen?
Night terrors are often linked to an immature nervous system and are most common in toddlers and young children. They can be triggered or made more frequent by:
✔ Overtiredness or irregular sleep schedules
✔ Big developmental leaps
✔ Emotional stress or changes at home
✔ Illness or fever
✔ Overstimulation before bedtime
In most cases, night terrors are not a sign of emotional or psychological problems and do not cause harm.
Night terrors vs nightmares
It is easy to confuse night terrors with nightmares, but there are key differences.
➤ Night terrors happen in deep sleep, earlier in the night, and your child will not remember them
➤ Nightmares happen in lighter sleep, often towards morning, and your child may wake up upset and seek comfort
Knowing which one your child is experiencing can help guide how you respond.
Other common sleep problems in children
Sleepwalking
Sleepwalking can occur during deep sleep and is another sign of restless sleep. If your child sleepwalks, gently guide them back to bed without waking them. For safety, ensure doors and windows are secured at night.
Bedwetting
Bedwetting is very common in young children and usually resolves naturally as they grow. Emotional reassurance is important, as children may feel embarrassed or upset.
Breathing related sleep problems
Some children experience disrupted breathing during sleep, known as childhood sleep apnoea. This can be linked to enlarged tonsils, narrow airways or weight related factors. Signs may include snoring, restless sleep or daytime tiredness. If you notice these symptoms regularly, it is best to speak to a healthcare professional.
How to support your child through sleep problems
While you cannot prevent every night terror or sleep disruption, there are gentle steps you can take to support better sleep.
Create a calm bedtime routine
✔ A predictable wind down routine helps signal that it is time for sleep
✔ Reading, cuddling or listening to a calm story can be very soothing
✔ Try to keep bedtime consistent, even at weekends
Support a regular daily rhythm
✔ Predictable meal times, play and naps help children feel secure
✔ Avoid overly late naps that may interfere with night time sleep
Make the sleep environment comforting
✔ Keep the bedroom dark, quiet and calm
✔ Aim for a comfortable room temperature around 18 to 20 degrees
✔ A soft night light or cuddly comfort item can help anxious sleepers feel safe
Avoid overstimulation before bed
✔ Limit screens and high energy play before bedtime
✔ Choose calm activities in the hour before sleep
What to do during a night terror
If your child is having a night terror:
✔ Stay close and ensure they are safe
✔ Do not try to wake them
✔ Speak softly or simply sit nearby until it passes
✔ Reassure yourself that it will end, usually within a few minutes
Trying to wake a child during a night terror can prolong the episode and increase confusion.
When should you seek advice?
Sleep problems are often part of normal childhood development. However, it may be helpful to speak to a healthcare professional if:
➤ Night terrors happen very frequently or worsen over time
➤ Your child seems extremely tired during the day
➤ Sleep problems are affecting behaviour, mood or development
➤ You notice breathing difficulties during sleep
Early advice can help rule out underlying causes and give reassurance.
Reassurance for parents
Sleep problems can feel overwhelming, especially when they disrupt the whole household. It is important to remember that most children outgrow night terrors and other sleep disturbances naturally.
With consistent routines, a calm sleep environment and reassurance, many families see sleep improve over time.
FAQs
Are night terrors dangerous for children?
No. Night terrors are usually harmless and do not cause emotional or physical damage.
Should I wake my child during a night terror?
No. Waking can increase distress. It is best to stay close and let the episode pass naturally.
At what age do night terrors stop?
Many children grow out of night terrors by early school age as their nervous system matures.
Can overtiredness cause night terrors?
Yes. Being overtired is one of the most common triggers, which is why consistent sleep routines are important.
