Help Getting 2.5 Year Old to Bed

Is he in a toddler bed yet? My daughter wanted to sleep in our bed also even if we weren't in it, and thats when I knew that she wanted a big girl bed. Also, at about 2.5, many kids go through a 'scared' phase- it has to do with their imaginations becoming more vivid. My daughter is going through that right now. Maybe the nap is too long for him. Make sure that he isnt sleeping after 2:00, that can disrupt bedtime for sure. Run him ragged before bed, that helps too :)

My 2.5yr old has been doing the same thing! It's very possible that they are going through another bout of separation anxiety. (Are you seeing any separation anxiety behavior during the day?) Also, this is the age when they are realizing they have some control about whether they go to sleep or not -- and they are testing us.

We added a nightlight. And we are simple holding to our guns and not giving in. We talk to him every night and tell him that it's bedtime and we will not be coming back into his room. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. I really think my son is testing us -- he is very strong-willed. I'm hoping this is just another phase that will go away in a few weeks.

At this age, 13-14 hrs total sleep is perfect. I don't know if I would change anything -- keep that afternoon nap as long as you can (especially with another baby on the way!!)

Has he gotten his 2 year molars yet? My son is teething and I have noticed he is much more clingy lately, especially around bedtime.

T.
www.ReadandGrow.com

Congratulations on your new addition. My suggestions are going to probably be difficult. However, it works for me. I have a 2 year old and he gives me a hard time sometimes because he feels that he might miss something. What I do is I run him out. We play and play and then he knows when the room light deem its time for bed. So I make him brush his teeth and use the bathroom for the last time. Then we go in the room and he has to clean his bed off and put on this pj. By putting on his pjs, i make him put his clothes in the hamper. That gives him some responsibility and enjoy laying in the bed. We pray and then its time to read. Sometimes he wants me to lay down and he does that when im sitting in the chair holding his baby brother. He may feel like you are pushing away from him because kids are smart and they can sense some change. Let me know if you try that!!!!