I have a 20 month old that I've always just 'dropped' in the crib at bedtime - she falls right to sleep, never to be heard from again! She still gets a bottle that I give her just before going down. It's our 'special time' since I also have a 3 year old that tends to monopolize my time! I recently traveled for work and was gone for 3 days, and when I returned, when I lay her in her crib, she cries for me to stay. If I sneak out after some time, she SCREAMS & kicks her feet on the mattress - she has quite the temper, anyway. I'm thinking this has something to do with my absense a few weeks back, but can't say for sure. With both my children, I successfully used the Ferber method to help them to learn how to fall asleep on their own - she had always done well, until last week. It wouldn't be such an issue, except my other daughter will only allow me to put her to bed, which I do right after getting the first settled - and it's not worth the fight to do otherwise! Any suggestions or opinions will be greatly appreciated!
She's at the age when they start experiencing separation anxiety. Your absence may have triggered it. But...after you lay her down, just keep going back and checking on her to let her know that you are still in the house and you're not going anywhere. After a few day of doing this, I'll bet she'll be fine. Good luck!
I think it is definitly because you were gone for awhile. I have fought with my son for three years now to sleep in his own bed. When he was about one I finally had him sleeping in his crib. Then my husband started working late. He crawled out of the crib because he wanted more time with dad. So that makes sense. I would suggest to stay by her crib for awhile then slowly work your way to the door. After awhile she should understand that you are not leaving her. Hope this helps. Good luck.
T. -
One quick thought is that children can all of a sudden become afraid of the dark at this age - does she have a night light? A lovey or blanket to take to bed?
Dana
I'm certainly no expert but I can tell you when I went through this at the same age it was with no explaination. I posted on West Mi Parents Website and got a ton of response all of which said they went through the same thing around the same time. I just ended up having to let him cry. It was a terrible time. I hated him going to bed like that. Bedtime was always so easy and our special time too. We would read books, snuggle a bit and then he would practically push off of me to get into bed. Sorry no advice just understanding.
