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Three year old sleep problem - help!

3 replies

Embongo82 · 16/11/2019 20:13

I am in need of some help and advice! My eldest son has just turned 3. He has been a brilliant sleeper for years now, a solid 12 hours a night, goes off by himself etc. About three months ago he started saying he wanted a light on, we started leaving his door open and the landing light on (his little brother has had to move out of the shared room, in to the living room to sleep, as he needs total darkness!!!!). Its gone on from there really to the point now where he screams the house down if I leave him in the room alone to go to sleep. For the last two weeks I have been sleeping on the floor in his room as he wakes several times in a panic to make sure I am still there. We tried everything imaginable, nightlights, door open, classical music, begging!!! He just will not go to sleep unless I am in the room. Has anyone else experienced this or have any suggestions? I am not sure what to do. He genuinely seems frightened of something but can not tell me what. I am hoping its another phase but I am exhausted! I am still getting up once or twice a night to feed the baby so this constant waking is taking its toll. He does seem v clingy at the moment in general, struggles to be on his own in any room during the day and follows me round the house. I feel really sorry for him and am at a bit of a loss as to what to do. He has the same bedtime routine he has had since birth and if I am in the room with him will fall asleep within minutes. Thanks in advance for any support or suggestions.

OP posts:
EstherMumsnet · 19/11/2019 21:40

This sounds tough OP - we are bumping it for you in the hope someone can come along with some helpful advice soon.

Derbyshirelady · 19/11/2019 21:50

Hi Embongo I could have written your post! We have finally had melatonin prescribed by paediatrician who our DS is seeing for other issues. About ten days in and last night he went to sleep on his own and slept till 6am for first time in 11 months. Used to sleep through, no idea what triggered it. Maybe ask your GP or health visitor? Our paediatrician also mentioned Sleep Council website which I’ll get round to looking at when I am less tired!
All the best - it’s so hard particularly the inconsolable crying if you’re not there when they wake. I thought it was a form of separation anxiety but our DS is fine at nursery drop off etc.

Embongo82 · 20/11/2019 08:24

Thank you so much Derbyshirelady! I have tried my health visitor a couple of times and they couldn't suggest anything!! It is very hard especially with a smaller one who has never slept through the night. I am very tired! I will make an appointment with the GP and look into the melatonin! Will also check out the website! Thanks for replying, nice to know I'm not alone and so glad you are getting some sleep!! X

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