Night terrors

I have had issues with this now and then with McKayla. Got really bad this side. Sometimes it went on for about 45 minutes and the more you actually just keep her safe in the bed and hope that she either wakes herself or goes in a sleepful sleep the worse it got.

What they suggest is that you put pillows around them and not to wake them up and to wait until they go to a sleepful sleep again.

Didnt work this side. She was hitting her head against the headboard and screaming and screaming but would be fast asleep. So we would take her into a different room that is slightly colder and talk to her gently and try to wake her up.

Rocking didnt help. Eventually only thing that helped was a wet facecloth and to sponge of her face. She would wake up and be a bit scared. Then giving her rescue remedy drops. She would go off to sleep in about 15 minutes again and will be fine for the night.

I am giving her rescue now before bed time and since doing that I havent had another night terror again (touch wood). Dont know if it is having an effect. We also talking with her at the moment as I think she is worried about something and some stuff came up. She started having wee accidents again and that sorted itself out now as well. (this all sorted in one week). So perhaps find out if something is bothering him and try the rescue.

During a night terror you may try to hold your child, but often this will result in his pushing you away or fighting you off. The best response is a gentle pat, along with comforting words or Shhh Shhh sounds. If your child gets out of bed you can lead him back. If hes sitting up you can guide him to lie back down. Just keep an eye on him until he settles back to sleep.

Preventions:
Preventing Sleep Disrupters

Some things have been found to reduce the number or severity of sleep-disturbing episodes. Since they are all based on good sleep practices, they are worth a try:

♦             Follow a calm and peaceful routine the hour before bedtime.

♦             Maintain a consistent bed time seven days a week.

♦             Avoid books and movies that disturb or frighten your child.

♦             Have your child take a daily nap.

♦             Provide your child with a light snack an hour or two before bedtime, and avoid a heavy meal, spicy food, sugar or caffeine during that time.

♦             Remember to have your child use the potty just before she gets in to bed.

-From Elizabeth Pantley.com.