Q:I have two children and am surviving on less than three hours sleep a day.My 1 year old is a dream,but my 2 year old screams constantly and fights tiredness.I have tried warm drinks,baths,massage and reading to her,but nothing helps.
A:Having an older child who doesn't sleep is very difficult.However,you can explain things to her and set up a reward system.You need to start a bedtime routine that follows the same pattern every night.Give her a bath,and explain that if she's a good girl and stays in her bed,she'll get a sticker.If she gets five stickers in any one week,she gets to choose treat.Then put her pyjamas on,read her a story while she drinks her milk,and say good night to her.Choose a key phrase to say as you leave her bedroom - for instance:"Good night,love you".Even if she screams,say the phrase and leave the room.Wait five minutes,then go back and,if necessary,put her back to bed.Repeat the key phrase and nothing else.Quietly leave the room again.Continue to do this every five minutes.Be consistent but firm.Continually returning her to her bed and saying the key phrase calmly will let her know that you aren't going yo give in.If she gets out of bed during the night,do exactly the same - repeat the key phrase and put her back to bed.Be prepared to do this for seven to ten days.Toddlers need lots of positive reinforcement,so emphasise what a big girl she's being about going to bed.
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