Hi, am looking for advice and support. I posted in parenting but don't think my sleep deprived brain did it properly so this is an abridged version. I have two DS aged 5 and 4. DS2 has not slept properly for four years, he either won't settle for hours (following quiet time, bath, milk and supper, story in bed and a song) or wakes at 3am and will not go back to sleep. He wakes the whole house running about, going into DS1's room or playing loudly. I feel exhausted :( I have tried pretty much every technique to help him to sleep better (co sleeping, gradual retreat, reward charts, consequences of not going somewhere the next day etc, lots of positive praise), I have spoken to HV three times - her most recent advice was to go on a parenting course with DH. Also spoken with GP who poo pooed the sleep issues, but did refer DS2 to audiology due to his 'soft speech.' We discussed the situation with his teacher, who said he is good in class but can sometimes be a bit head in the clouds. DS2's behaviour at home is worsening: eating a limited diet, won't sit at table, screaming (his vocabulary is average for 4 year old), and the final straw is hitting me hard/scratching/biting me. He has tantrums which are hard to control. DH is supportive but does not view it as such a big issue and can be inconsistent in his approach with the children. We are working through this and he seems to be starting to understand how bad I feel. I have recently gone full time at work, my job is quite stressful (criminal justice system) and we are currently refurbishing the house which we moved into a year ago. I desperately love my family but wish I could be 'signed off' from family life for a few weeks to get some peace and rest. Any ideas, help or advice would be much appreciated. Thanks S x