Night Terrors in Children: What's Behind Them and How to React?
It's the middle of the night. Your child is screaming loudly, sitting upright in bed, eyes wide open – and not responding to you. You try to calm them, but they don't seem to see you. After a few minutes, they simply lie down and go back to sleep. The next morning, they remember nothing.
That's a night terror – and it's more frightening for the parents than for the child.
What are Night Terrors?
Night terrors (medically: Pavor nocturnus) are a type of arousal disorder. The child doesn't truly wake up – they are in a state between deep sleep and wakefulness, where the brain is partially active but consciousness is still asleep.
Night terrors are not nightmares. Children do not dream during them – they don't experience anything scary. The intense reaction (screaming, sweating, racing heart) is a physical response of the nervous system, not an emotional one.
How Common Are Night Terrors?
The University Children's Hospital Zurich states: Night terrors occur in 20 to 40 percent of all children between 3 and 10 years old. They are most common between the ages of three and six. Most children "outgrow" night terrors by puberty.
How Do You Recognize Night Terrors?
| Characteristic | Night Terror | Nightmare |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | 1–3 hours after falling asleep | Second half of the night |
| State | Not truly awake | Awake, oriented |
| Reaction to Parents | Doesn't perceive you | Seeks comfort from you |
| Memory | None the next morning | Often remembers |
| Duration | 1–15 minutes | Short, then awake |
| Screaming | Loud, intense | Crying, calling out |
What Triggers Night Terrors?
- Sleep Deprivation: Overtired children more often experience night terrors
- Irregular Sleep Schedules: Rhythm affects sleep architecture
- Fever: Elevated body temperature promotes arousal disorders
- Emotional Stress: Excitement, new situations, changes
- Full Bladder: Urge to urinate can trigger arousal disorders
- Genetic Predisposition: Night terrors tend to run in families
How to React Correctly?
The Most Important Thing: Don't Wake Them Up
Do not try to wake your child. This prolongs the episode and can lead to confusion and fear. Your child isn't experiencing anything bad – they don't need rescuing.
Ensure Safety, Don't Soothe
Stay calmly nearby and make sure your child doesn't get hurt. If they are moving, hold them gently – without restraining them. Speak calmly and softly, even if your child doesn't respond.
Wait
The episode usually lasts 1 to 15 minutes. Afterward, your child will lie down on their own and go back to sleep. Then you can go back to sleep too – your child didn't experience anything and won't remember anything tomorrow.
Don't Mention It the Next Morning
Do not talk about the night terror the next day. This could unsettle or scare your child – even though they didn't experience anything themselves.
When to See a Doctor?
Night terrors are usually harmless and resolve on their own. Speak with your pediatrician if:
- The episodes occur very frequently (several times a week)
- Your child injures themselves or leaves the room during them
- The episodes last longer than 20 minutes
- Night terrors still occur after the age of ten
Can Night Terrors Be Prevented?
They cannot be entirely prevented. But you can reduce their frequency:
- Ensure sufficient sleep – sleep deprivation is the biggest trigger
- Maintain regular bedtimes
- Avoid stress and excitement in the evening
- For known triggers: use the toilet right before bed
Frequently Asked Questions About Night Terrors
Is My Child Suffering from Night Terrors?
No. Your child experiences nothing during a night terror – they are not truly awake and have no memory of it. They are not suffering.
Are Night Terrors Dangerous?
Generally not. The risk lies in your child potentially injuring themselves during uncontrolled movements. Ensure the bed is safe and there are no objects nearby.
Do Night Terrors Stop on Their Own?
Yes – most children outgrow night terrors by the age of ten, many even earlier.
Key Takeaways at a Glance
Night terrors are frightening for parents – but harmless for the child. Don't wake them, ensure safety, wait. The episode lasts a few minutes and leaves no memory. With sufficient sleep and regular bedtimes, the frequency can be reduced.
Sources: University Children's Hospital Zurich, Center for Sleep Medicine; German Society for Sleep Research and Sleep Medicine (DGSM); School Medical Service City of Zurich, as of 03/2025.
