Bedtime troubles for 2.9yo

[hildainstant]

DS1 has always been great at bedtime - put down awake, happy to be alone while falling asleep, pretty much sleeping through etc.

But, since DS2 arrived in Feb he's been a tinker at bed time - essentially he won't stay in bed unless I'm sat there next to him until he falls asleep. When DH is around it's less of a problem but when he's working I have to manage getting the baby to sleep as well as trying to stop DS1 from resisting sleep all alone. Sometimes my Dad comes to help but I can't do this forever!!

I've tried rapid return etc but this just ends in him thinking its a game and laughing at me while I lose my temper and become the Mam I don't want to be!!

Any suggestions would be so gratefully received. I know it's probably due to him now having to share my attention and although he shows no jealousy or animosity to his 'baby brother' I get that this has been a huge adjustment for him as he's still a baby himself.

Help please?!

Tricky - you have my total sympathy, bedtime with two is a nightmare in the beginning even without them changing it up on you.

Have you tried a reward chart, and lots of talking about what you expect during the daytime?

Although it most likely is to do with attention, have u also considered if he is actually tired enough? Things can change a lot once they get towards 3 & their sleep needs decrease.

What time are you putting him to bed? Is he still napping during the day & how long for? If he does still nap you may want to consider either s later bedtime or to restrict/cut out his nap & you may find he's more willing to settle.