DS is 2.1 and has never been a great sleeper (reflux / CMPI diagnosed very late). Things were improving and we eventually reached a point where after bath / books / BF I could pop him in his cot, kiss him goodnight and leave him to it. He'd usually be fast asleep by 7-7.15 and would wake up at about 5.30 (not great, but we managed!).
Four weeks ago we took the side off his cot - had to do it as he started climbing out. Now I can't leave him to drop off as he won't stay in the cot - but I think my presence is a distraction. He keeps asking for another story, more BF, his back rubbed etc. He's now often not asleep until 8.30-9pm (although in his cot by 7-7.30) and has started waking early - usually by 4am. He only naps for about an hour in the afternoon. The upshot of this is that he is absolutely exhausted (so am I!). He needs more sleep but how on earth do I get him down earlier?