Ugh! anyone else have a 6 year old that you stay until they fall asleep?

[Anonymous]

I swear my son is getting a sleeping disorder. This started years ago with a nanny that would do this to get him to nap. We are still doing it. Thoughts on how to break this habit? Anyone else doing this too?? Thanks.

[zumbamama]

Mine was like that and this is what worked for us. Nothing sweet after 8pm. I give him foot rubs/back scratches when he lays down. After I kiss him goodnight I tell him to work on his dream and that I used to tell him I'd be back in 10 minutes to check on him.I think it helped him to know I'd be checking on him.

Sometimes I help him start a dream, by telling him to close his eyes, asking him what he sees in his mind. I'll start a random story about whatever, and get him thinking about it by asking questions or making suggestions. "What is the kitty or astronaut doing? What color? Maybe he's looking for something." I tell him to continue the story in his mind.

At first, I'd wait 10-15-20 minutes, a little longer each night. But after about a month I was able to leave the room after saying goodnight, sweet dreams.

I also noticed he did better when I added soothing music or one of those ocean waves or tonal CDs.

[Anonymous]

This is not an OFF TOPIC topic.
You'll get more responses posting on General Parenting...

[Anonymous]

zumbamama, I love your idea! "Get started on that dream...."