We all dream whilst sleeping, some of us experience vivid dreams for others we never remember a thing. Most children however will experience nightmares at some stage between the ages of 18 months and around 3 years.  What causes them?It could be something that has upset them, they have heard a scary story from their friends or seen something frightening on the television or maybe they are feeling nervous about something. Upon waking they may not even remember their nightmare but they will need lots of cuddles and comfort. Night terrors

These are when your child may be screaming, crying out and thrashing about in their bed. Sometimes they may even get up and talk. Although you want to help them escape their night terror it is best not to wake them in the middle of one. If your child is experiencing a night terror at the same time every night you could try to gently wake them up at least 10 minutes before to break the pattern. It will mean you will have to set your alarm clock but could solve the problem. Keep them awake for a few minutes before letting them drift off back to sleep. They may not even remember you waking them in the morning even if you are feeling the effects of broken sleep! Most children grow out of these and they are not normally caused by anything upsetting.