I don’t know what to do anymore! My 4-year-old keeps coming into my bed every single night. It’s been going on for months. I try to take them back to their bed, but it turns into a battle. I’m exhausted, and I know they’re not getting great sleep either. My 1-year-old still sleeps through the night (thankfully), but I can’t help but feel like I’m doing something wrong with my 4-year-old. Is this just a phase, or am I doomed to never get a full night’s sleep again?
Hang in there, Sofia! We went through the same thing with our 5-year-old , and it does get better. It’s definitely a phase for a lot of kids and for others a learned behavior. They just want that extra comfort, especially as they get older and more aware of nighttime fears. Maybe try staying with her in her bed instead of her coming toyours ,keep being patient and gentle, I promise time will help.
Hey Sofia, we dealt with the same thing! One thing that helped us was using a sleep training clock. We got one that changes color when it’s okay for them to get up. It was a game-changer because it gave our child something visual to focus on. You can also try walking her back to bed calmly without talking or engaging too much, so it doesn’t become a habit. Consistency is key, but it’s totally okay if it takes time!
Ugh, SAME here. My 4-year-old does the exact thing! Some nights I’m too tired to even fight it and just let them stay, which I know isn’t helping. Have you tried putting something comforting in their room, like a nightlight or soft music? I’m considering trying a sticker chart for staying in their own bed. What do you think?
Oh, I feel you. My oldest went through this too. I remember the nights where I’d be half asleep, walking them back to bed for what felt like the hundredth time. It’s exhausting, and I wish I had a magic solution. But just know you’re not alone, and it won’t last forever. They’ll eventually sleep through the night again in their own bed… hopefully sooner rather than later. My child psychologist friend said something at the time that stuck with me, if it doesn’t bother you or your partner, and she can fall asleep in her bed, then don’t stress too much about it, they’ll eventually want to sleep by themselves, promise. 