My two year old doesn't know how to go to sleep on his own.

Question

We have always stayed with my son until he fell asleep at night.  He has typically slept fairly well at night, except when ill or teething.  A couple of months ago we moved him to a twin bed because he was able to climb in and out of the crib.  Now he comes into our room every night after we go to bed and refuses to sleep in his bed.  We have tried for up to two hours to walk him back to his room over and over.  I think the problem is that he doesn't know how to go to sleep on his own and wants us with him all night.  How do we teach him to go to sleep on his own and stay in his bed?

spunkamonk · Answer

You might find help for your situation in a book called "Baby Wise".  It is available at most bookstore chains and many Christian bookstores.  If you are not a Christian, though, don't worry that the book is not right for you.  It is very straight-forward and not fluffed up with religion.

Kevin Kennedy, Ph.D. · Answer

You unwittingly created this problem by not having your son fall asleep on his own all along. Now you have to bite the bullet, set firm limits and adhere to them. Remember, he's only doing what you've taught him - i.e., need you to fall asleep. This won't change overnight, but it will get better if you persist.

My two year old doesn't know how to go to sleep on his own.

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