How to Help a Child End Nightmares

The causes of dreams and nightmares are not fully understood. Nightmares may occur when your child is under stress or worried about something, but they may also develop for no apparent reason. Young children often go through a period of nightmares which cause them to wake up afraid and have trouble going back to sleep. After a few of these bad dreams they may become fearful at bedtime, dreading a potential nightmare. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to set the stage for a peaceful night's sleep.

Instructions

    • 1

      Wake your child up and put her to bed at the same times every day. Consistent wake-up and bedtimes lead to better quality sleep.

    • 2

      Develop a calming bedtime routine. Pick a few activities that your child enjoys which help him calm down, such as a bath and a story, and work them into a nightly routine. He may also enjoy cuddling on your lap, listening to or singing along with a song or two, or any other peaceful ritual. This is not the time to read an exciting story or rough house; the quieter the routine, the easier it will be for him to slip into sleep. Take a few minutes to talk about something happy or positive right before bed.

    • 3

      Provide a security item. Some children prefer a special blanket, others a particular stuffed animal. Provide something that your child can cuddle up with as she drifts off to sleep.

    • 4

      Avoid exposure to media that may be scary. You are probably already avoiding scary television shows or movies, but even the nightly news turned on and overheard from the next room can be enough to trigger nightmares.

    • 5

      Respond to nightmares in a caring, loving manner. This can be a challenge in the middle of the night, but take a few minutes to cuddle and reassure your child. This will make it easier for your child to get back to sleep.

    • 6

      Discuss the nightmare during the day. Talking about the nightmare during the day can help it seem less real. Don't forget to remind your child, no matter how obvious it seems, that nightmares aren't real.

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