Help! DS wont leave me alone for a second.

[Spongebob]

Hope someone has a suggestion or two. Around 3 weeks ago, my DS of 19 months caught a bad cold and understandibly wasn't sleeping well....I took him into my bed at night which seemed to settle him. Now he's healthy again and although he goes down in his cot initially, he is waking about midnight screaming to get in with me. Last night I decided I would be firm. He screamed virtually all night long...I kept getting up to settle him every 20 minutes or so, and in the end...pushed the spare bed up to the cot and got in it....but he eventually cried himself sick....So I gave in after about 4 hours. How can I get him to stay in his own cot!!! Help

bump

Hi spongebob, it's really difficult, but you need to stand firm. I'm afraid you're going to have a few more tough nights so maybe try again on a Thurs or Fri night so you have the weekend to chill and get energy back. Your plan was right, just keep putting him back again and again and again. Eventually he'll get the message. It's amazing how quickly they adapt to being in bed with us and what a nightmare it is to get them out of it! Good luck and sorry my advice isn't that great!

do you have a DP/DH? Could they go to your DS in the night if he wakes? This worked a treat with mine, who settles much much easier with his dad. I know my DH wanted to help and he offered to do the night shift for a while, and it worked so well that in fact he had to get up for only a couple of nights and then my DS had his night's sleep back (as did we!)

Might not work with everyone I know but certainly worked like a charm for us so thought it worth mentioning.

Sorry spongebob no advice but can completely sympathise I am in exact same boat and have been since new year! Unfortunately I dont think there is anything different you can do, just need to be strong to cope with the crying and hope it doesnt last too long. Easier said than done (I know) hoping best for you and please keep posted if you manage to suceed and pass on your tips

my two used to do this after they had been ill

it's like you change the rules when they are sick (and have them in your bed, understandably) but then they get better and can't understand why they can't come back in with you

I'm afraid the only answer is standing firm and tolerating a few nights of crying till he gets the rules again!