18 month old still falls asleep with us in the room

[Libydy]

Hello fellow mumsnetters. I have an 18 month old who has a regular naptime and bedtime pattern. However we still have to be in the room with her, sometimes holding her hand whilst she falls asleep. With another baby on the way this is going to get difficult and I don’t think it’s particularly helpful long term for my her either - so I’m looking to break the cycle! Any similar experiences, tips, tricks etc? Thanks In advance 😊😕 x

What happens if you out her down awake and walk out?

You could try a gradual retreat or walk out of the room and come back every so many minutes.

Definitely recommend sorting it now so she doesn't associate it with the baby.

My 9 year old prefers to go to sleep with one of us near. I sit and read on the floor. It takes five mins and he goes to sleep happy and secure. I wouldn't worry.

I changed this with my now 17 month old. We introduced a comforter that she held at the same time as my hand then gradually stepped away over a number of nights until she just held the comforter. It was pretty painless

I have an 8 year old and a 5 year old and I have to smooth my 8 year olds head/ back and sing to him to help him fall asleep lol

@Lasttimeneveragain

What happens if you out her down awake and walk out?

You could try a gradual retreat or walk out of the room and come back every so many minutes.

Definitely recommend sorting it now so she doesn't associate it with the baby.

Yes that was our thinking. If we just walk out she’s fine but not settled. Then after a while she becomes upset and throws her dummy out which is game over so I have to go in and give it her back. When I have given it to her and walk away again the crying is worse.

Today I thought of just gradually getting her used to not holding my hand. This seems to be the ultimate comforter so I may need to play the long game.

Thanks for your comments.

Thank you everyone, feeling a little reassured.

@Fantail86

I changed this with my now 17 month old. We introduced a comforter that she held at the same time as my hand then gradually stepped away over a number of nights until she just held the comforter. It was pretty painless

Yes, I was thinking of leaving her with my pj top or something as a comforter. She has a couple of soft toys in their which she plays with but don’t really seem to comfort her. Thank you.

I would also direct her, like "have you got your bear? Etc" I found that drawing my daughter's attention to it helped. To be fair she initially threw it at me but it worked in the end!

@Fantail86

I would also direct her, like "have you got your bear? Etc" I found that drawing my daughter's attention to it helped. To be fair she initially threw it at me but it worked in the end!

Haha, yes I can relate! I’ll stick with it. Thanks for the tips x

@Libydy good luck!