Hi, I had the same issue with my daughter after she was frightened by an inconsiderate neighbor lit off fireworks right in front of our house and her room (they live DOWN the street)....after two weeks of sleepless nights, I discovered what I believe is the Dr Sears method-what I did (starting at nap time) is lay her down after following the usual routines, then gently but firmly put my hand on her belly and kept it there until she fell asleep. It's time consuming and not so comfortable for you, but believe me it was worth it. The first nap took 25 minutes of standing there, the second 10. Then bedtime was about 20 minutes. She learned to go back to sleep on her own, while having that security that she needed. It may take a few days and if he wakes up when you try to leave, start over again. It was better for me than crying it out because my daughter was frightened. Now, after our usual nighttime routine, I give her a kiss and put her in her crib, some nights she'll go right to sleep, others she may lay there for a little while and talk herself to sleep, but she doesn't need me to help her. Like I said, this worked for me, each child is different, but it may be worth a try.