Breastfeeding, cosleeping, potty training for SN toddler

[mamma437]

We noticed some regression in my 2.5yo and it looks like he had some sensory issues and had just started OT/ST this week. It's possible he may have ASD as well though the therapists are quite optimistic.

The thing is we were hoping to achieve several things between 2-3yo including:

1. Weaning off breastfeeding. I thought when we could communicate better I could explain to him. But we've still not got too that point yet. I work full time and he's desperate to breastfeed as soon as I'm in the door, so I feel bad about denying him.

2. Weaning off co-sleeping. DH has taken over co-sleeping with DS 4 nights a week to allow me to get some rest. DS thrashes and is generally very active before he even falls asleep. He then wakes up 2-3 times a night and needs comforting from either of us. Again I can't see a point when we'd be comfortable letting him sleep on his own - he'd come out in search of us.

3. Potty training. DS doesn't follow basic instructions most of the time - I often question whether he's heard or understands me. He can all for help and has spontaneously peed in a cup in the shower. So we could have a go at potty training and see if instincts will be enough.

Basically since we started to understand his sensory issues I've tried to be more patient with DS but I've also become even more pessimistic about achieving these three things. How do I go about them? The same as you would a typical toddler, or should I expect it to be more of a challenge?

He’s still very young. Plenty of children without any additional needs don’t potty train until after age 3 so maybe allow him more time to mature. My DS1 who has ASD potty trained easily enough at 2 years and 9 months. My friend’s NT son was very resistant to it and they waited until he was about 3 and a half and then he got it in no time as he was a bit older and more ready.

My DS2 who is NT son co-slept until age 5 as he just felt happier not being alone in bed. Then gradually he started falling asleep in his own bed - but we had to lie with him until he fell asleep until age 7 - he said he was afraid to be alone but I think he liked having company. Eventually your son will sleep alone but the only problem is you not getting a good nights sleep. Could you put a little bed in the room with you and transfer him during the night when he is in a deep sleep?

@SuperSleepyBaby

Thanks for replying. Will keep what you said in mind.

When DS wakes through the night he's looking for some physical comfort, so cuddle from daddy or breastfeeding from me. If we're not there he'll come looking for us.

How do you get them to stop biting, hitting, hurting. This has escalated in the last few months. Telling him to stop firmly usually results in laughter or tears. Do we just ignore him after a punch to the face? It's really hard not to react!