I just wanted to let you know we addressed your question on the most recent show (5/8/08) – take a look at http://www.blogtalkradio.com/parenting.

Julie, we will probably address your question further in another show, but off the top of my head, my thought would be perhaps to a gradual desensitization process – one step for a few nights until she is used to it. So, you might go from laying with her, to sitting on the edge of the bed, to sitting in a chair, to sitting partway across the room….you don’t change where you are during the evening in question, but during the daytime every several days (move the chair in advance). Stay with each step until it is fairly comfortable.

I will be interested in hearing your thoughts on Aleisha’s post. We had the same issues with our daughter and I can completely relate to Aleisha’s comments about the wounds that were being created by the bedtime struggle. It was such a sad way for us all to end the day. We talked to our daughter at length about why she was having difficulty if we left the room and for her, it was a fear of being alone and also feeling like she is missing out on whatever we are doing. In the end, we caved and now one of us lies down with our daughter until she falls asleep. I really wish our daughter could self-comfort herself to sleep and I hope that comes someday. But, for now, we decided that the trauma was too much for everyone. We would love suggestions on how to proactively make the transition to her going to sleep on her own without it being traumatic.

Thanks!