Night terrors can look alarming, but they’re common in young children and usually nothing to worry about. They happen when your child is partly awake from deep sleep- not fully asleep but not awake either. 

During a night terror, your child’s body might move or react even though their brain is still asleep. They might cry out, sit up, or look frightened and confused. They often don’t recognise you in the moment and usually don’t remember what happened the next morning. 

What night terrors can look like 

Your child might: 

• look scared
• scream or cry
• sit up suddenly
• sweat a lot
• seem confused or not know who you are 

Night terrors usually happen in the first two to three hours of sleep and may follow a regular pattern. Most children grow out of them by the end of primary school. Some children who have night terrors might also sleepwalk. 

See Sleepwalking for more information.

How to support your child 

• gently guide them away from anything they could bump into
• keep their bed low to the ground if possible
• clear clutter or obstacles from the floor
• lock doors and windows to keep them safe
• use a safety gate near stairs if needed