Last summer we had night after sleepless night happening at our house. One of our 2 year olds, Vincenzo, had developed a fear or anxiety about being in his bed. Since it was light out when we put them to sleep around 7 pm he was fine going to bed, but he would wake up in the middle of the night screaming as if he was having a nightmare and it became almost impossible to get him back to sleep without lots of rocking, cuddling and coaxing. We even resorted to leaving the door to his room open with the hall or bathroom light on all night. It seemed to help a little. But, the cure came when we started to help him build a "nest' in his bed. We let him choose a few stuffed animals and a favorite blanket. It became part of our routine to tuck in "fluffy" his beloved blankie and his "animals" that include a big mickey mouse and a baby mickey.
Worked like a charm. He felt safe and nestled in at night and the waking up and screaming ceased. He has added to his nest as time has gone on and now has several animals including Goofy, Donald Duck and a few teddy bears. At bedtime everyone has to be accounted for and tucked in with him.
Luccio has started to build a nest too. He still has his Wubbas at night
(see O Wubba post for details) and he has a few "woof woofs" and bears.
For Christmas I made the boys their own quilts and they love to have them tucked around them at bedtime.
Their beds look like they are getting smaller and smaller, but are so cozy. Tucking everyone in with their Lovies has become a nighttime ritual that we all look forward to. It's a nice end to the evening routine and helps everyone get some sleep!!
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