Gradual Withdrawal
Suitable for all children including those with increased anxiety or children who have never been left to sleep alone in their own bed.
Teaches your child to settle independently & self soothe. This should cause minimal distress if done with a consistent approach.
Sit next to the bed on a cushion/stool. Tell your child it’s bedtime and give a kiss goodnight. Then, do not speak to them and avoid eye contact. Stay in the room for ten minutes after they fall asleep. Repeat each time they wake.
Week 2: Move the cushion/stool away from the bed slightly and repeat.
Week 3: Move to the middle of the room.
Week 4: Move to the door of the room.
Week 5: Sit outside the door.
Rapid Return
Suitable for children who will initially settle in their own bed. NB, this method is not suitable for children with anxiety or those who cannot be left whilst awake.
Gives your child the clear message they need to be in bed and will be returned to bed every time they get up during the night.
Each time your child gets out of bed, quickly and calmly return them to bed. Repeat the same goodnight message, after this do not speak to your child and avoid giving eye contact.
Repeat each time your child gets out of bed.
If your child is getting out of bed repeatedly you may need to stay out of sight but remain close by to enable a prompt response.