In night terrors, when do children typically experience the episodes?

Children typically experience night terrors during the first part of their sleep cycle, specifically during non-REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. This phase occurs within the first few hours after falling asleep, often during the deep sleep stages. Night terrors are characterized by sudden arousals from sleep, and they often occur in the early part of the night when children are entering deep sleep.

Understanding the timing helps in managing and addressing night terrors effectively. For instance, if parents are aware that these episodes typically happen within the first four hours, they may take precautions during this time or seek to establish a calming bedtime routine to ease the transition into sleep. This knowledge can also inform parents about what to expect when their child encounters such episodes, thereby alleviating any confusion or concern.

Other options regarding when night terrors may occur, such as during naptime, before bedtime, or during the last hour of sleep, do not align with current understanding of sleep cycles and the nature of night terrors, as these scenarios generally fall outside the common occurrence window for these disturbances.