2 year old sleep regression

[Sleepy100]

My little boy is nearly 3, he has just started playgroup, he didn't like being left at playgroup initially but now enjoys it and doesn't show any resentment to being left anymore. As a baby he was a bad sleeper. We used controlled crying when he was just over 1 year old which had amazing results. Since 15 months old or so he has slept from 7 to 7 (roughly) only ever waking if unwell, lost the covers or he needs a wee.

Since starting playgroup he is terrified of being left at night and cries if we leave him. During the first few weeks we said we would do what he wanted to help settle him, we stayed in with him or let him come in with us. Over the past 2 weeks we have insisted on him being in his room/bed. He is happy in his bed as Long as we stay with him until he falls asleep. It doesnt take long but he is waking between 2 and 5 times a night, every night. Last night we tried controlled crying again. He screamed, smashed his room up, broke his blinds, barricaded the door and emptied all his shelves and cupboards (all within 5 mins)! I was so worried he was going to hurt himself we stopped.

We are at our wits end!! Any ideas/sugestions gratefully received thanks x

[InsaneDame]

Millpond sleep clinic don't recommend controlled crying for children 3yrs+, they advise something more gentle like gradual retreat.

[xxxbingbunnyxxx]

Sorry no advice as I am in the same boat with my 2.5 ds, cc worked great when younger but read so much saying not to use it past 2 yrs. At the moment he either has a bottle to settle and I pray x