In children, the most common parasomnias such as night terrors and sleepwalking present in what stage of sleep?

In children, parasomnias such as night terrors and sleepwalking predominantly occur during slow-wave sleep, which is classified as stage 3 of non-REM sleep. This stage is characterized by deep sleep, where the body is less responsive, and more complex behaviors can emerge. Night terrors, for instance, typically happen in the first third of the night when slow-wave sleep is more prevalent.

During stage 3 sleep, children may exhibit activities like sitting up, screaming, or walking without being aware of their actions, and they usually do not recall the episode upon waking. This is a crucial perspective in understanding when these parasomnias manifest, as they are less likely to occur during lighter sleep stages or REM sleep, where increased brain activity and vivid dreaming take place.