Attached to Baby

So far my son has NEVER not once ever fallen asleep on his own. In six months, every nap, every nighttime his going to bed is a 30min-1 hour long event  for me. And this is 3 or 4 times a day. I haven't really minded because I keep telling myself that eventually this kid will fall asleep on his own some day. Is it too early for this? Should I be doing something? What will I do if I have another child that needs to be rocked to sleep? Ack! Help!

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Ann

Mommy to Logan 8-25-05

For our daughter we rocked her until she was nearly asleep then moved her into her crib, laying her on her side. I would stay with her in the crib until asleep by rubbing/patting her back, or patting her bottom (for some reason she really enjoyed). The first few nights I was there for awhile, but then  gradually weaned myself away. I would go from patting her back, to just lying my hand next to her, then gradually fading myself from the room. Over the course of a few weeks, I could just lay her down and rub her back for a few minutes then leave with her awake. I had problems letting her CIO so I felt like this way at least  I was there for her. Hope this helps!

Kristen

It still takes us 1 hour minimum and up to 2.5 hours to get our three year old to sleep.  We use the family bed but normally get kids to sleep and join them later.  Our 5 month old goes to sleep easily and has slept through the night from day 1 (don't hate me...paid my dues with ds1 who never slept more than 4 hours at a time until after his second birthday!).  I guess it just depends on the kid.  I do have to say though...my three year old is the most incredible child.  Sleeping is just not his forte so we just go with it, understanding that we all have our needs.  It does take a lot out of us, but that's just his personality.  Hopefully  he'll be able to get himself to sleep by college!

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Susan~Wife to Andrew; Mama to a grown up sling boy, Atticus, and a little wrapped love, Creeley

What a difference 2 months makes. At 6 months, Logan would never have fallen asleep on his own. Then at 7 months, he became Mr. Independant. He just wanted to play in his crib until he fell asleep. And now at 8 months, that's the routine! It works great! Finally!

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Ann

Mommy to Logan 8-25-05

Ann, I would totally love to know your trick!  If we go near or lay DS in the crib at night all he** breaks loose in the house.  Course we have been co-sleeping for quite awhile now.  Now at 9 months DS is all over the place at night.  Would love to be able for all of us to spread out someday.  I think we would probalby all sleep a bit better. 

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Angie
mom to Taylor (1/95) and Alex (7/05)