Daytime naps

[dennya]

Have discussed this before, but now have two weeks to go before going back to work and would really like to get a daytime nap routine, although dd (20wks) still screams when put in cot. Feeling brave and would like to crack this. Any tips or reading recommendations would be gratefully received.

Mine did that and honestly, the quickest, most effective way to deal with it is the toughest. Put him in his cot and let him cry. If he's ready for a nap, he won't cry long. You can do progressive waiting (as per Ferber) or just leave him alone (as per Weissbluth). My DS's sleep improved dramatically once he was capable of soothing himself to sleep. It was the hardest thing I've had to do so far as a mother but it was for his wellbeing (since he wasn't sleeping well) and my sanity (since I was spending hours a day trying to lull him to sleep in my arms).

Think I just had a victory. Blacked out the room, gave feed until sleepy, put in cot and patted and sshhed everytime she appeared to nearly wake up. Have left her now to see how long she will go. Am poised at the bottom of stairs with labtop.

Good luck!