2 year old suddenly petrified of evening bedtime

[marting1984]

Hi.

This is my first post here on Mumsnet. It's been a great source for help in our first couple of years of parenting, so thank you very much to everyone who contributes so enthusiastically.

On to our problem...

Our 2 year old has always been a fantastic sleeper. We have had absolutely no problems with her since we started her in her own room and cot from 6 months. We established her sleeping pattern by using the controlled crying method which worked perfectly.

5 months ago we welcomed her little brother to the world, and although many people say the older child starts to act up when a new baby comes into the picture, we've had no problems.

Two months ago our 2 year old had a 'big girl bed' and she has been napping and sleeping in it with no problems at all since we've had it. A fairly smooth transition.

However, since last week, every time we have gone to put her to bed in the evening, she has cried and screamed to the point of petrified. We can't think of anything specific that may have triggered this, like a nightmare or something. It was all of a sudden and it's been the same every night since.

We're having to wait until she's in a deep enough sleep in our bed or a spin in teh car before we can put her in her own bed.

It's worth noting that she is happy to go in our bed alone with the lights off, so we aren't concerned that the dark is affecting this recent change.

It's also worth noting that she is willingly going to her bed during the daytime for her nap.

Anyway, I thought I would put this out there to you guys for your input. We'd really appreciate any words of wisdom.

Thank you in advannce.

[isthistoonosy]

How is her night sleep once down could it be time to drop the nap?

[marting1984]

Once she's down she's good as gold. Sleeps right through.