Children, like adults, dream during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage of sleep. REM sleep is a phase of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, increased brain activity, and vivid dreams. However, the distribution and frequency of REM sleep change as children age.
Newborns and infants spend a significant portion of their sleep time in REM sleep, up to about 50% of their total sleep. As they grow older, the proportion of REM sleep decreases. By the time a child reaches the age of 5 or 6, REM sleep constitutes around 20-25% of their sleep. In comparison, adults typically have about 20-25% of their total sleep time in REM sleep.
Dreams during childhood are often vivid and imaginative, reflecting the child's experiences, emotions, and imagination. Younger children's dreams may involve simple, concrete elements, like animals, toys, or familiar people. As they grow older and their cognitive abilities develop, their dreams become more complex and can include fantastical scenarios, stories, and sometimes fears or anxieties they might be experiencing.
Children's dreams can also be influenced by their exposure to various media, such as cartoons, books, and movies. They may incorporate characters and elements from these sources into their dreams.
It's essential to recognize that each child is unique, and their dreams can vary widely based on individual experiences, personalities, and age. Additionally, children may not always remember their dreams upon waking, similar to many adults.