Sleep paralysis in children is frightening for the child and the parent. Children experiencing sleep paralysis wake from their dreams and are unable to move. They are conscious but still involved in their dream.
Dreaming happens during REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep. This is the light sleep where the mind is most active. During this state the muscles are deeply relaxed, and apart from the occasional 'twitch' the body is still and motionless. The eyes flicker underneath the eyelids but the rest of the body is 'paralysed'. This immobility is considered to be nature's way of protecting us from harm by 'acting out' our dreams.
Although the sufferer is experiencing hallucinations of terror they are physically in no harm. Common hallucinations include believing that there is someone in the room, suffocation and a feeling of impending death.