Sleep problems...I can't take it anymore

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-25-2003
Sleep problems...I can't take it anymore
3
Thu, 12-01-2005 - 10:03am

Hi,

My 4 year old has never been a very good sleeper, waking up a lot during the night, always wanting to sleep in our bed, needing rocking and milk, etc. It's really become more challenging as he's getting older. He doesn't take naps anymore. He comes in our bed usually before we've even gone to bed...so needless to say the marital activity has been sparce...not good. I don't know what to do. He has huge melt-downs if I try to take him back to his bed or even putting him on a bed on the floor beside out bed. What can I do? How can I encourage him to stay in his bed? We have a 16 month old who also sleeps in our room. She generally sleeps through the night and doesn't have any of these challenges. I don't get it, please share some thoughts.

Thanks,
Jenn

Lilypie 1st Birthday Ticker
Avatar for me_n_my_gals
iVillage Member
Registered: 03-26-2003
Thu, 12-01-2005 - 11:59am

So sorry to hear that, Jenn. Sleep is a tough one, isn't it? From the moment our girls slept in regular beds, there were some rules. NO getting out of bed - if you need something call mommy or daddy. BUT, if you call us, you can only do it 3 times, then after that, you are on your own (sounds harsh,I know). That is only for right after they are put in bed for the night. We also provided both girls with a tape player/radio/cd player and they are allowed to have music. Once the tape has ended, I will not come in and flip it over. One side is all that is necessary. In the middle of the night, if you call, I will come. BUT, only for good reason - not feeling well, etc. Not just because you need a drink of water (they get water bottles by their beds). If they got out of bed, we just walked them into their room, put them back in and said "its time for bed now". Retucked them in and left. Simple, firm, no arguing, explanation, etc. That is just the way it is and has to be. No yelling, etc., as we know that does no good, right? I hope others have some advice as well. YOu know your child better than we do, so maybe a little bit of info. from more than one person, will help you formulate a good bedtime routine.

Big hugs, good luck and let us know what happens!!

Wendy
SAHM to Katie (9) and Molly (6)

Photobucket
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-21-2004
Thu, 12-01-2005 - 2:32pm

I am sorry this is happening.


I am no help since we practied AP but I know there is a sleep board on Ivillage that can help you. They have changed it around a few times so I will try and find it for you.


Good luck!


Traci

Image hosted by Photobucket.com
Image hosting by Photobucket
iVillage Member
Registered: 08-05-2004
Thu, 12-01-2005 - 10:20pm

Jenn,


You might try a visit from the "sleep fairy".