Help DD HATES her cot!!

[AllisD]

Hi

Since I joined BB - I have found it an absolute field of information and tips. I really need help with a strange problem that I have. I know that most babies etc dont really like to sleep but my DD who has just turned 1, bsolutely hates her cot! She has never ever liked it and wont sleep in the room by herself. I have let it go on this long but now she can sense when you are lying her down in her cot as compared to my bed and she starts screaming.

If she wakes up and discovers that she is in the cot - she starts screaming.
If I put her in her cot to sleep -she starts screaming.
If I walk near the cot whilst carrying her - she starts screaming.

I have tried to put some really cool toys in there, she has the flashest mobile that plays music and lights, she has lovely sheets and quilts - not that a 1 year old cares - but after 12 months of fighting it she absolutely hates it! She is too little to go into a bed by herself.

I really want her to start sleeping in her cot so I was wondering if I could please draw on the collective knowledge that is also known as the BellyBelly Forums and get some suggestions to put into play?

Thanks

[~Kim~]

Sorry Allis, got nothing that will really help - i have exactly the same prob.

We are just going to get rid of our cot. Nate sleeps on a matress on the floor when he isn't in our bed.

[Ezz]

DS never liked the cot either. He was in a single bed by 18 months & if I'd known how much it would help, I would have done it sooner! We bought a car bed (which is really low to the floor & has sides).

[Curly]

I honestly would try a toddler bed with removable guardrails (you can the rails from Target). They use a cot mattress and are very low to the floor.

[Taurean]

You could also try giving her play time in her cot. I read some advice about this recently and in the article they said that if the baby had some positive experiences in the cot then they were more likely to be calm in it when it comes to bed time. The article suggested popping them in there for some play time (with toys, tummy time, watching a mobile) with the lights on/blinds open and lots of positive reinforcement from mum. After a bit of play time take them out to their normal play area.

I do this with DD when I'm hanging out the washing as the clothes line is outside her window. She's really content in her cot and I'm sure this has helped.

Good luck!

[widdly]

Put her in a bad with side rails. GL.

Oh also, DS hated his cot but loved his portacot, I think cause it had soft sides? Maybe give that a go?