[header] How to cope with toddler night terrors [title] Identify the difference between night terrors and nightmares. [step] Night terrors may frequently be confused with nightmares, but the two are unique. Being able to distinguish the difference between the two can help you understand how to manage and prevent them. 
[substeps] Nightmares happen during the rapid eye movements (rem) phase of sleep, which usually occur during the later stages before a child wakes up. The child will be frightened when he or she wakes, and may be reluctant to return to sleep.