Learn how to assist children overcome this distressing time. Information on helping kids deal with dreams.
Its 2 o' clock in the morning, you're fast asleep, and all of a sudden you're woken by an ear piercing scream. You get up, wondering what on earth that noise was, only to realize the sound is coming from your child's room. Yes, your child is having another nightmare.
While it is common for children to have bad or frightening dreams, it is hard for them to know that what frightened them isn't real, So they need comforting to get back to sleep. However, what causes nightmares?
Things that have happened during the day can build up anxiety in a child and set off nightmares. As children grow older, they can manage worries and fears better, therefore they usually have less nightmares. If nightmares are happening more than usual, there might be something upsetting your child. Think carefully about what might be upsetting your child. It could be something major such as separation from a parent, arguments in the house, or even a change in the child's normal routine. Remember, children also have great imagination, so monitor what programs your child is watching on TV or even playing on the computer or video games, as they can't distinguish fact from fantasy as easily as an older person.
If nightmares become regular, and you can't find a cause, then consider seeking professional advice, meanwhile, what else can you as a parent or caregiver do? Try to make the daytime less stressful for the child. Encourage a relaxed learning atmosphere, as learning a new skill such as toilet training can put a lot of pressure on a child, so keep the occasion relaxed. This goes for learning in any area, including reading, drawing, putting away toys, etc.
Encourage the child to talk about anything that may be worrying them.
Stick to a bedtime routine. When you put them to bed, wind them down with a story, quiet talk, a cuddle, reassuring words such as "I love you, have a good sleep, see you in the morning." If your child is scared being alone at night, sit or lie beside them for a while until they go to sleep.
Children may feel better if their bedroom door is left open, and a night-light on, Keep wardrobe doors closed.
A child may need reassurance about their dream, so gently encourage them to talk about it, but don't force them. Then reassure them that all is well and they are safe.
Keep reminding them that dreams are not real until they are old enough to understand.
Remember that what may seem trivial to an adult may be major to a child, so don't dismiss any fears or worries they may have.
So next time you're woken up in the middle of the night by your crying child, think of how much that nightmare could be affecting the child. Then, we as parents by using these basic guidelines
mentioned can help our child to overcome these stressful experiences in their life. This will make it easier for both the child and parent or caregiver.
