D.G.
Hi Kathleen,
I do not have a toddler any more, but do have FMS. I am so sorry to hear your dilema. How much help are you getting for your disease? What have you tried to get help for your sleep? I have many friends with the same problems and every person is different, but it doesn't sound like you are quite in "control" of it yet. It can be a hard thing to get. The truth is that there is not really a substitue for exposing your child to experiences in life. Of course I don't say this to make you feel guilty. You are in no way at fault for what you are going through. Get as much help as you can from as many people as you can to take him out and about and spend that "teaching time" with him. It would be wonderful if you could be the one to do that, I know, but for now, make arrangements for him to get some "life tutoring". Talk to family, friends, etc. and see who can help you out. You have to look at things from a different perspective when you have limitations. The mountain won't go away totally, but you can look at imaginitive ways to get around the mountain. Listen to your gut. What it is telling you he needs, listen to it and figure out how you can give that to him, even if you are not the one personally doing it all the time. Doing that is what fulfills your job as a wonderful mother. Not just giving up, but making a way for him to still get what he needs despite the circumstances. Obviously you are a great mom, because you are asking questions and looking for answers. And keep looking for help to solve your sleep problem. Once you are able to do that, things will improve for you. If you have any questions I would love to tell you more about my experiences with FMS and kids and the treatments that have helped me, email me. I wish you the best!