Carrie: I have a 2 year old son who has never been a good sleeper. I think there have only been a handful of nights since he was born that he actually slept through the night. Over the past few months it has gotten much worse. He wakes up about once an hour, cries, kicks, hits & talks in his sleep. I have even seen him sleep walk twice. I have brought him into bed with me thinking he would feel secure & sleep soundly. But even next to me he wakes constantly, kicks, cries etc. I am exhausted & frustrated & I am so desperate for some help!!!
Sally Tannen: It sounds like you really have your hands full. Some of the things you are describing are very normal for a two year old, like sleep walking/talking and thrashing around. I think you should start with your pediatrician who may help you, or may give you a referral. Describe to her/him your bedtime routine, starting with what time you start putting him to bed. Some of these things are a stage he will outgrow and others are going to require more input from you. Sleep expert Dr. Weissbluth believes very strongly that putting them to bed earlier is critical to a good night’s sleep. If you are in the NY area, Dr. Weissbluth will be speaking at the Y on Tuesday, November 6th at 8:15pm. Good luck!
Sally Tannen
Director, 92nd Street Y Parenting Center
