What to do when a child sleeps and has a nightmare?

The article was written by Doctor Nguyen Thuy Dung - Pediatric Oncologist, Children's Center - Vinmec Times City International Hospital

Nightmares are scary dreams that children may experience, often related to their worries. The best thing a parent can do is reassure their child and help them overcome their fear.

After most nightmares, children will feel more secure with a few minutes of encouragement and sharing from parents. Let your child know that you are close to them and assure them that they will be safe. Avoid scary or overly stimulating images, especially right before bed. Keep a safe object like a soft toy or blanket that your baby likes in bed. >>> Children's Night terrors: What you need to know

If your child asks to turn on the light, set it to the lowest setting possible so your child can go back to sleep. Bright light can keep your baby from sleeping.

The next day, you can discuss the nightmare with your child to find out what is causing her anxiety.

Some children do well to use their imaginations to get rid of nightmares. Children can draw pictures of their bad dreams and throw the pictures away, or they try to imagine happy endings to their nightmares...

Make sure your child gets enough sleep, as a tired child may have more nightmares.

Before the child sleeps, try to spend time with the child with activities that help calm the mind such as: reading, telling stories, singing lullabies.. Avoid letting your child watch inappropriate videos and TV shows before sleep. For children 12 months and older, avoid food and drink 1 hour before bedtime. Learn about your child's fears and help them overcome them. >>> Reasons why children don't sleep well

If your child has frequent severe nightmares, talk to your GP, school nurse or pediatrician for advice. It is necessary to exclude medical disorders related to sleep such as: sleep apnea, heartburn, epilepsy ... Psychology Clinic - Vinmec International General Hospital is having the function of examination, consultation and treatment. Outpatient treatment of psychological and mental health problems.
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Clinic working schedule from 8:00am - 12:00pm, afternoon 13:00-17h00