Pacifier dilemma | Imamother

amother

Tue, Jun 18 2024, 9:10 pm

My son (almost 5) was very attached to his pacifier. 3 weeks ago, after another sore throat we decided it's about time to get rid of it. Tried making the transition easier for him and bought him a small cozy blanket, got him a special treat, made a chart...BH after 2 nights he stopped asking for it. My issue is that he falls asleep so late now. in the past with his paci he fell asleep within 15 min. by 7:30 he was usually sleeping now hes still up at 9:00. Any ideas? (tried already listening to CDS, looking at books)

amother

Mistyrose ↓

Wed, Jun 19 2024, 11:18 pm

It sounds like you made a positive and smooth transition away from the pacifier, but the new challenge of delayed sleep onset can be tough. Here are a few strategies you might try to help your son fall asleep earlier:

1. **Consistent Bedtime Routine**: Stick to a consistent and calming bedtime routine. This could include activities like a warm bath, brushing teeth, a quiet story, or some cuddling time. The routine should signal to your son that bedtime is approaching.

2. **Screen-Free Time**: Ensure that there is at least an hour of screen-free time before bed. Screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone.

3. **Physical Activity**: Ensure he gets plenty of physical activity during the day. This can help him burn off energy and be more ready to sleep at night. However, avoid vigorous activity close to bedtime.

4. **Sleep Environment**: Make sure his sleep environment is conducive to sleep. This means a dark, quiet, and cool room. If he's attached to the cozy blanket, make sure he has it with him.

5. **Relaxation Techniques**: Teach him some simple relaxation techniques. This could include deep breathing exercises, gentle stretches, or listening to calming music or nature sounds.

6. **Gradual Adjustment**: Gradually move bedtime earlier by 10-15 minutes each night until you reach the desired bedtime.

7. **Daytime Naps**: Assess his daytime nap schedule. If he’s napping too late in the day or for too long, it might be affecting his nighttime sleep.

8. **Positive Reinforcement**: Continue using a reward chart for staying in bed and trying to sleep. Positive reinforcement can encourage him to adhere to the new routine.

9. **Discuss Feelings**: Sometimes, children have a harder time falling asleep due to anxiety or feelings they haven't expressed. Spend some time talking to him about his day and any worries he might have before starting the bedtime routine.

10. **Be Patient**: Adjusting to a new sleep routine can take some time. Be patient and consistent with the new bedtime practices.

Implementing these strategies may take some time and consistency, but they can help create a conducive environment for your son to fall asleep earlier.

amother

↑ Whitewash

Wed, Jun 19 2024, 11:21 pm

amother Mistyrose wrote:

This looks so much like AI