It is not uncommon for young children to experience sleep disturbances, including episodes of crying or appearing distressed in the middle of the night. Parents may feel concerned when their child screams or becomes inconsolable, only to fall back asleep without any recollection of the event the next morning. But is this normal? And what should parents do when such occurrences happen?
Are Sleep Disturbances Normal for Children?
Yes and no. Sleep disturbances can be quite common, especially in children, and may fade away with time. Studies show that a significant percentage of children between the ages of four and twelve experience nightmares. These unsettling dreams are a natural part of the developing brain and can be influenced by stressors or anxieties in a child’s waking life. On the other hand, it is not considered normal to leave a child screaming in the middle of the night without offering comfort or reassurance. Understanding whether a child is experiencing a nightmare or something more serious, like a night terror, is important for parents to respond appropriately.
Nightmares vs. Night Terrors
Nightmares and night terrors are two different types of sleep disturbances that often get confused. While nightmares are distressing dreams that typically occur during the later stages of sleep, night terrors are more intense and can happen soon after a child falls asleep.
Nightmares: These are disturbing dreams that can cause a child to wake up feeling frightened or upset. The content of nightmares often involves common fears or anxieties, such as being chased or feeling unsafe. Though unpleasant, nightmares are a natural part of childhood and usually do not indicate any underlying health issues.
Night Terrors: Unlike nightmares, night terrors typically occur within an hour of falling asleep and can be much more intense. A child may scream, thrash about, or seem terrified, but will not remember the episode the next morning. Night terrors are most common in children between the ages of three and five and are less related to specific fears or anxieties.
What Should You Do?
If your child wakes up crying but is still asleep, do not try to wake them up or turn on the lights immediately. Simply sit beside them and offer comforting words. If they appear to be having a nightmare, gently wake them up and offer reassurance. If they seem to be in a state of panic and are fully awake, this could be a night terror. In this case, provide comfort by hugging them and assuring them that everything is fine, but avoid talking about the episode the following day unless the child brings it up.
To help prevent sleep disturbances, it’s essential to maintain a calm environment before bedtime. Avoid allowing children to watch or read anything that might be too frightening or stressful. Keeping a nightlight on and ensuring the room is peaceful and secure can also be helpful.
When to Seek Medical Advice
If nightmares or night terrors become frequent or more intense, it may be necessary to consult a pediatrician to rule out underlying medical conditions, such as sleep disorders or changes in medication. However, if the disturbances happen only once or twice, it is typically not cause for concern and may resolve on its own.
Spiritual Protection for Your Child
From an Islamic perspective, parents can protect their children by reciting specific prayers and seeking Allah’s protection. The Qur’an provides guidance to keep one’s home free from harmful influences, including evil forces and disturbing dreams. Parents are encouraged to pray for their children’s safety and wellbeing, using du’a (supplications) and Qur’anic verses, such as Ayat al-Kursi (Surat Al-Baqarah 2:255), which serves as a powerful protection against evil.
Reciting Surah Al-Baqarah in the child’s room and saying prayers like, “I place you in the trust of Allah, whose trust is never misplaced,” can provide comfort and spiritual security.
Conclusion
Sleep disturbances like nightmares and night terrors are a normal part of childhood development, but it is important for parents to respond with care and understanding. Ensuring a calm, reassuring bedtime routine and providing spiritual protection can help children feel secure. In cases of frequent disturbances, seeking medical advice can help identify any underlying issues. Ultimately, placing trust in Allah and seeking His protection will offer peace of mind for both parents and children.