Ok I really need some solutions

[Willow]

I know I sound really pathetic but Eva's sleep challenges are really taking a toll on me physically and mentally.

It's not pathetic at all honey, I was there myself and that's why I decided I needed to do something different because after 10 months nothing was working and with other children in the house, it was taking too much of a toll on our family.

I agree with the others that at this age consistency is REALLY important. Choose a going to sleep routine that you're comfortable with and stick with it. Even if it doesn't work the first 5 times, by the 8th time it might - and what do you have to lose?

She may never be the worlds greatest sleeper and you need to accept that at some point, but it can be a lot better than what it is now babe, so don't give up

[~Jayne~]

Hey Bek,
Oh darl, I feel so upset for you, I have been in your situation (with Jessica) & I know how bad I felt & she was my only, I didn't have another 2 little ladies running around the house.
Just wondering if you could possibly set a chair up in Eva's room & then you can create your own little routine for her sleepy-time ritual?

I did this with Claudia & it didn't work right away, but eventually it really did pay off. I could only get her to sleep on the boob & from about 12 months, I wanted her to go down to only morning & night feedings, so I did this with her. When she was tired, I would take her into her room, draw the curtains & talk crazy mummy babble in the soothing voice (like what plays in day spas hahaha), like 'It's time for Claudia to have a sleep now, & when you wake up you will be really happy & we will play lots of games, or go for a walk - you get the idea), then we would sit down & I would read her a book & if she still had bright eyes I would rock her in the chair & sing through the nursery rhymes until her eyes started to get droopey, then I'd say 'Lets put you into your cot now Claudia, lie down nicely & have a nice rest' still in that sing-songy voice & I had a wind up musical thing, I would wind that up & just walk right out the room & not look back. If ever I hestitated, she was onto it! Cheeky tart!

Perhaps you might like to try something like that, but put the feed in there? Then sing some nursery rhymes or something?? I did the whole process in her room though.

I hope this might give you some ideas?? I know Eva isn't Claudia, or Jessica, but a lot of babies (I"m not saying all), like a familiar routine.

Love Jayne x

[BekZ]

Thanks everyone sooo much for your replies and suggestions. I've had a bit of time to re-group and I have a plan. Now all I have to do is stick with it

[Bun]

I don't have any advice for you Bek but just wanted to send you some huge huge . My DD was a terrible sleeper and i remember how desperate I got. We eventually got there (although she still doesn't sleep through the night), and I can only imagine how hard it must be with 2 other kids as well. Thinking of you sweetie, I hope you can find something that works for you soon.

[Willow]

Hope your plan works Bek - remember we're here to bounce ideas off or just an understanding shoulder to cry on. Good luck!!

[mako]

Oh Bek I just want to send you a hun. The girls have offered some wonderful advice for you too.
We also ended up going to the same place as Willow and her DS1 and I have to say it was my saving grace.

Anyway I just want to let you know that consistency is the key here. Whatever your plan is try and stick with it and hopefully your DH will help with that too.
I'm sorry I haven't offered much help but know we are all here for you no matter what.
You are a wonderful mummy who is trying her absolute best for her little girls

Please know we are all here for you anytime

[~Jayne~]

BEK _ Maybe can you & DH sit down & discuss the little arrangements you have made with yourself, so that he can also do the same things? That way you are both clear in what is going to happen at sleep time? I know my 2 thrived on consistency - I really hope you get something breakthrough this week. Good luck! xx