[smbcpc]

I was wondering how other parents put their baby to bed, whether for a nap or at night. Do you put her in her crib and leave almost immediately or do you stay with her until she falls asleep?

We have been back from China for over two months and our 1-year old sleeps well through the night but putting her to bed ain't easy. She starts tapping on the mattress with her feet and scratches it with her nails, she raises her butt and tries to sit up and even does something that appears to be tugging on her eyelids. We have soft music playing in the backgrund and we stroke her back until she falls asleep which can take up to half an hour and can be tiring.

I would appreciate any suggestions or feedback. Thanks!

[SofiasMom]

I did the stroking also. It took a long time (6-9 months?) until she'd go to sleep by herself. Half an hour isn't really much (I remember sitting for over an hour for nights at time). At one point, it was easier just to bring her into bed with me (I'm single) but I know this doesn't work for everyone.

I wouldn't leave her to cry - it might eventually work in getting her to sleep but it's not recommended for institutionalized adopted children.

[Sheba]

Kennedy has to be held to go to sleep at night and is just now starting to sleep in her bed by herself. She has slept with me alot since coming home. She has night terrors and had some issues with her tummy at first and I would be up all night walking with her. She is now getting better at 2.5 years old. Every child is different and you have to do what you think is best. For me it was putting her in bed with me to calm her or I would get no sleep at all!

Good luck. It sounds like you have it under control. Kennedy does not pull at her eyes but does twist her hair when she is going to sleep.

[lucia2]

we co-slept for the first 3mos home & transitioned our tot to her own bed once she was walking. we opted for a full size matress on the floor in her bdrm. frequently after books, my spouse falls asleep there while our daughter babbles & finally sleeps. Our little girl is 16mo & she is just beginning to fall asleep on her own, alone. the full size bed in her room has certainly helped us get through the transition with less sleep deprivation...now it's like we have a 2nd evening after she falls asleep!
good luck! (it's all about what works for you & your family.)