I'm at a loss. In the last month or so My daughter is waking up 2-3 times every night and making me sleep with her. I've tried letting her whine but she just ends up yelling, getting her lots of stuffed toys, lamps, leaving the light on, bribing her. I feel like I haven't had a restful sleep in like a month. She's 5 so she knows right from wrong. I've explained to her why I can't sleep in her bed and she has agreed that she will try. Any other mums have tricks?
3 Replies
Food intolerances? Night terrors? Growing pains? Don't assume she's being naughty. Try to find the cause so you can both sleep.
If she isn't genuinely upset I'd just ignore her even if she yells the house down! If your going to use that approach you'd want to be pretty sure she isn't upset and you are not going to respond at all!
Otherwise I'd try the gradual withdrawal method. It's basically where you don't get in bed with her but sit progressively further away from her until she doesn't need you any more.
You could also talk to your GP about an over the counter medication for short term use and it may just help her break the habit!
If you needed something longer term slow release melatonin may be needed.
If she is afraid try some 'monster spray' do up a spray bottle of water maybe add some lavender oil and she can spray it around her room to get rid of the 'monsters'. We have also been using the little fairy door, the fairies leave little notes of encouragement and little presents when she does well :) http://littlefairydoor.com
Good luck and I hope you get some sleep soon x