Q: My 18 month-old has had nighttime distress his whole life. Meaning, he does not sink into sleep very well and wakes up often, sometimes just uncomfortable and other times screaming or crying. We have tried everything, and have ruled out medical issues. What can we do?
Michelle responds:
That’s got to be so difficult for you mama, it’s sad to see your little one in distress and being unable to comfort them. My littles used to wake up a lot at night and sometimes nothing but time would help them relax.
It’s good to hear you’ve been trying some things and have ruled out the possibility of a medical issue. One thing that we don’t always think of is something I’d like to offer. It’s a concept that is helpful in my own parenting and has helped in the lives of many of my clients. When my youngest was around 2/3, I began to notice that when I was stressed, she would have a really hard time falling asleep at night. The night this occurred to me, I stopped, focused on my own thinking for a moment, and was able to relax about my own situation. My daughter instantly relaxed!
You know the concept of our child being our “mirror”… of course, each child may mirror different things, and each child also has their own life’s experiences they’re going through, sometimes regardless of what we bring to the situation. But it might be helpful to explore whether it’s a reflection of what’s going on inside your mind and heart.
Even if it’s not really a factor, it probably will be helpful at least for you. I’m sure there are myriad other explanations and ideas, but I offer it for what it’s worth. 🙂
~Michelle
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Michelle Mersy, C.P.C. is the mother of two wonderful children (who kept her up ALL night long as babes), and a certified Life and Parenting Coach. She affirms, “Stop just wishing things could be different. They can be, if YOU do something different. Coaching will make that difference.”
989-397-8386 ~ [email protected]
www.MichelleMersy.com