My toddler just turned two, not falling asleep on her own

greenmama2013 · August 2013

I have a two year old who I've been trying to get to sleep on her own in her "big girl bed". When she was still in her crib, I'd put her down and shut the door and she'd go right to sleep--but now she needs to have me there. I'm expecting a new baby in November and it's going to be tough laying down on the floor next to her (the whole ordeal takes about an hour) until she's finally asleep. It's already getting tough as I'm getting pretty big and it's so uncomfortable having to lay there! I've tried putting baby gates on her door (she needs one on top of the other because she climbs right over) and letting her cry it out but she'll scream and not stop until I'm in the room with her. The other problem is that she needs ME in the room, and doesn't like my husband putting her to sleep. She'll just call out for me until I'm there. I feel like this is going to be impossible once the new baby gets here. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!! I'd really just like to shut the door and let her cry but I feel awful doing that, considering she doesn't stop!

aglenn · August 2013

Have you tried waiting until she is calm and getting sleepy, and then telling her you need to go to the bathroom (or whatever excuse you want to use) and will be right back? I started this way with DD, who was very similar to what you're describing for your DD, and then gradually started waiting longer before I'd check back in on her. It took some time and patience but it seemed like it helped. Now she goes to sleep much better if I'm not in the room - it's like I am a distraction.

kimmyberly26 · August 2013

I agree with PP or tell her that you are going to bed too. That way she doesn't think you are going to have fun without her. You may want to consider a twin mattress in the floor.THen if you have to lay with her, at least you would be comfortable. DD has one that we put a rail up with so she doesn't roll off.

greenmama2013 · August 2013

I have tried saying I'll be right back, but that makes her even more upset. I can't say I'm leaving at all! Ugh she's frustrating haha. Might have to just put a mattress on the floor.

BelhurstBride · August 2013

Try the NCSS for toddlers?

We started transitioning DH being the full time bedtime doer pretty much as soon as we found out I was pregnant. We also made a HUGE deal out doing up her big girl room. She loves it and bedtime is a breeze- a total 180.

greenmama2013 · August 2013

Ok I ordered the NCSS for toddlers! We'll see what happens! Thanks for the advice everyone

Lauriekeener · August 2013

Hi, yes I just did this with my 2 yr old I am also pregnant due in oct and was laying on the fl. My dr told me to sit on the floor with my back to him do not answer him if he talks each couple of nights move closer to the door. I went all the way outside the room in the hall where he could see me to him just seeing a portion of me, to nothing. But still being outside the room with door open only a little. Once he didn't call for me anymore I knew he was good to go. I did this slowly it took me about 2 months and now I put him to bed tuck him in and walk out close the door. I thought this method sounded crazy but it worked! It might take awhile but take your time till she is comfortable. I wish you luck!

greenmama2013 · August 2013

Thank you for your help! I will have to try it!

Cocolamo1 · August 2013

Similar situation, but new baby was here when it started. I used a modified sleep shuffle, The Sleep Lady- Kim West. We put a 'special seat' outside her bedroom door where she could see me. After 4 nights, I moved 'seat' to the nursery next door. At this point, it still takes her a while to fall asleep, but at least I can take care of the baby instead of being stuck next to her bed.

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