Babies and young children dream more than adults and those dreams are vital for their development, memory, and emotional wellbeing. From the womb to the early years, dreams help process the world around them. Whether they’re dreaming of colourful characters, animals, or imaginary adventures, sleep plays a key role in shaping their growing minds.
At Slumbersac, we believe in making bedtime magical. That’s why our baby sleeping bags feature playful, imaginative characters so your little dreamer can drift off wrapped in colour, comfort, and calm.
Do babies really dream in the womb?
Yes, scientists believe that babies begin to experience REM (rapid eye movement) sleep – the dream phase – as early as 24 weeks in the womb. While these early dreams may not be like ours, they help babies process sensations and begin connecting with the world even before birth. These “empty” dreams support brain growth and emotional development from the very beginning.
How do babies and toddlers dream?
Dreaming continues to play a vital role in a baby’s development after birth. In fact, newborns spend more time in REM sleep than adults. This phase helps them:
✔ Process daily sensory experiences
✔ Strengthen motor memory
✔ Store new information in long-term memory
✔ Navigate emotional changes during growth spurts
At first, babies begin sleep in the REM phase which is why they wake easily. From around three months, they begin transitioning into deep sleep first, meaning they start to sleep more soundly, but still dream frequently.
What do young children dream about?
As children grow, their dreams evolve. While babies may dream in fragments or sensations, toddlers and older children begin to form more vivid, though still abstract, dream images.
-
Ages 3–5: Dreams are often colourful, imaginative, and feature animals, heroes, or fantastical characters – just like the ones on our Slumbersac sleeping bags.
-
Ages 6–7: Children begin to understand the difference between dreams and reality and may start dreaming of themselves as the main character in their own stories.
-
Ages 7–12: Dreams become more structured and narrative-based, reflecting the child’s understanding of real-life experiences.
The amount of REM sleep and dreaming tends to decrease with age, but the dreams themselves become richer and more meaningful.
Why do children have nightmares?
Nightmares are a normal part of childhood and often begin around age 4 or 5. They usually occur when children are processing emotions, fears or new experiences. While toddlers may not have proper nightmares, they can wake upset or frightened, especially in the dark or during changes in routine.
Common causes of nightmares:
✔ Overstimulation before bed
✔ Anxiety or fear during the day
✔ Changes at home or in routine
✔ Illness or tiredness
How can I help my child cope with nightmares?
Creating a safe, reassuring bedtime environment is key. At Slumbersac, we suggest building calming bedtime rituals such as:
✔ A warm bath followed by cuddles
✔ A comforting sleeping bag with familiar characters
✔ A soothing bedtime story or lullaby
✔ A soft nightlight and favourite teddy
✔ Gentle reassurance if they wake in the night
What if nightmares become frequent?
If your child has frequent bad dreams, try imagery rehearsal therapy. This simple technique involves your child rewriting the ending of a scary dream during the day – for example, by drawing a new version of the dream with a happier outcome. Doing this over time helps reduce fear and gives your child more control over their dream world.
What are night terrors?
Unlike nightmares, night terrors occur during deep sleep and often affect children aged 3 to 8. A child may sit up, scream, sweat, or appear panicked but often they won’t remember the episode in the morning. While distressing for parents, night terrors are usually harmless.
To help reduce night terrors:
✔ Stick to a calming bedtime routine
✔ Avoid overtiredness
✔ Don’t wake the child during an episode – instead, stay close and speak gently
✔ Ensure the sleep environment is safe and soothing
FAQs About Children’s Dreams
➤ Can babies dream in the womb?
Yes. REM sleep, the phase where dreaming occurs, begins around 24 weeks gestation. These dreams are essential for early brain development.
➤ Why do toddlers wake up from dreams so easily?
Babies and toddlers begin sleep in REM, the lightest phase, making them more prone to waking. From three months onwards, deep sleep develops first.
➤ How can I make bedtime feel safe for my child?
Use calming routines, a comforting sleeping bag with familiar characters, and a soft nightlight. Reassurance and predictability make all the difference.
➤ Should I worry about nightmares?
Occasional nightmares are normal. If they become frequent or distressing, techniques like dream drawing and calming routines can help reduce them.
