Toddler transition to bed and not sleeping!

Hi Debbie,

Our now two year old got himself out of his crib a few times so he is now in his big boy bed, but the transition has  taken us back to his baby days. He is waking up a few times throughout the night  and coming to his door (which we have gated to keep him in) and he is waking up  early and crying at the door rather than preoccupying himself as he would in the  crib. Tonight he has been standing at his door crying and screaming for 45 mins  now. My husband and I are at odds and are wondering if  you might be able to  offer any ideas?
Looking forward to hearing from you!
Lindsay

HI Lindsay

Its very common for toddlers to  regress when they come out of their cribs because of the extra freedom they now  have to get out of bed and move around more freely. A great new tool is the Gro  Clock. Its a tool that helps teach your child when is sleep time and when is  wake time. Parents set the clock for an acceptable and reasonable wake up time  and throughout the night the clock will show a picture of the moon or stars.  When your target morning time has come, the clock changes over to Mr Sun. This  is a fantastic way of teaching your child when is sleep and when is wake  time.

I would also consider using a reward system. Each time he does get into bed on his own, stays in bed and/or sleep through the night, he would get a sticker on his sticker board along with a small reward (can be something from the dollar store). Then once he gets 10 stickers he wins a big surprise.

Most importantly, is being consistent. Don't be tempted to stay in his bed or bring him to your bed. We do now have a toddler trainer Emma on board. THat may be an option if you are looking for a more guided approach.

Hope this helps
Debbie