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Parenting (Expert Forum)
23 month old screaming at nap and bedtime
Answered by
Rebecca Resnik, PsyD - Parenting Instruction, Developmental Disabilities, Psychological Assessment
MindWell Clinical Psychology
Chantilly - VA
Questions in the Parenting Forum are being answered by doctors from MindWorks. Topics include: Behavioral Issues - Discipline, Emotional Development, Family Issues, Recreation, School Issues, Social Development
23 month old screaming at nap and bedtime
by jaimekirk, Aug 15, 2008 03:30PM
My son use to be good about going to sleep, even in his toddler bed. But recently no matter where I put him, in his bed or crib, he screams and refuses to go to sleep unless I let him scream for 2 hours. I'm not sure what to do. Any suggestions??
Doctor's Answer
by Rebecca Resnik, PsyD, Aug 18, 2008 07:48PM
, Aug 18, 2008 07:48PMTo: jaimekirk
Hello,
some children naturally stop napping around this age, and you may not be able to get him back in the habit. I would absolutely not let a child scream for 2 hours, that is not good for him or for you. If you want him to take quiet time, you can reward small periods of time that he is quietly resting in the bed playing or looking at books (try for 5 minute intervals at first, with praise, stickers or tiny treats as the rewards). Work up gradually to longer periods of time as he is successful.
You may have some success moving his bedtime back to encourage him to nap, however if he is functioning well without sleep, than he may not need it anymore. If he becomes so agitated that he screams for over 20 minutes, enforce a quiet playtime out of bed and try again in an hour or so.
Best Wishes
Rebecca Resnik
some children naturally stop napping around this age, and you may not be able to get him back in the habit. I would absolutely not let a child scream for 2 hours, that is not good for him or for you. If you want him to take quiet time, you can reward small periods of time that he is quietly resting in the bed playing or looking at books (try for 5 minute intervals at first, with praise, stickers or tiny treats as the rewards). Work up gradually to longer periods of time as he is successful.
You may have some success moving his bedtime back to encourage him to nap, however if he is functioning well without sleep, than he may not need it anymore. If he becomes so agitated that he screams for over 20 minutes, enforce a quiet playtime out of bed and try again in an hour or so.
Best Wishes
Rebecca Resnik
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