Answer: It does sound like his behaviour is causing you stress. Have you considered a referral to an early parenting centre in your state? A referral from a child health nurse and/or GP is usually essential. Think about what your boy currently sees as an association with going to sleep. If he’s in your bed, needs you close, has a bottle or any other cues or aids which help him to settle then he’s likely to not learn how to settle to sleep on his own. Protests and crying usually are very effective in parents giving in to their child and giving them what they want but over time, they don’t support any independent skill building in prompting sleep.
Have you checked out the huggies site for information on “camping out” or sitting beside the toddler’s bed until they are calm and about to go to sleep but aren’t fully asleep?
This can be very effective, especially if the parents move the chair closer to the door or even position the chair in the doorway and quietly read a book and give the child gentle but firm verbal direction to “put your head on the pillow, go to sleep now”. Try not to escalate in your own emotions when he’s upset, toddlers are keen on parental control and if he sees you getting upset as a result of his behaviour then he’s likely to keep doing it.
Another option may be enrolling in a Triple P toddler management course, but perhaps at 2.5 years he’s still a little young. Do check out the toddler behaviour information on the site.
Cheers
Jane