Hi,

Your little one has been through such a big thing in his life. It’s hard to know how he experiences it - but he has some serious and ongoing health problems and even for a grown up this would be very scary. He’s probably undergone a whole lot of tests and painful procedures - and the only thing he trusts is you. It’s unlikely that he will respond to routines at this point. He needs you - and you need support. This is the time that you need to call on any support networks you have - they need to hold you so you can hold him. Many babies respond well to being in a baby sling (and some-times it takes a lot of practice - and a bit of screaming at the start, but eventually, close to you, he will learn to relax and let himself sleep. he might find it easier in a cot or basinette near you (even with the TV going) until he falls asleep. Will he sleep in bed with you? Co-sleeping is a great way to reconnect and get some sleep. Don’t compare him with what other kids his age are doing. He has a special set of circumstances, and only time and patience will heal. Crazily, having a baby that sleeps well seems to be the badge of good mothering. Why? Those babies are easy to parent. Ones like yours take all your skills and reserves, and then some. Try not to do it along, find your support team wherever you can (even here on Belly Belly) And be gentle with yourself