Posted by Sandman on October 01, 2008 at 14:13:25:In Reply to: 9-year-old cannot fall asleep posted by momto3russells on October 01, 2008 at 08:09:28:
This may not be easy after 9 years so you may need a psychologist that specializes in this area.
Part of your problem is limit setting which includes "who is in charge". Another part is Sleep-Onset Association Disorder. (difficulty falling and returning to sleep in the absence of specific environmental conditions.)
This isn't my expertise but here are some things I've heard that deal with these problems.
1. Gradual desensitization - Start by having your husband sit in a chair next to the bed until he falls asleep. Every night move the chair closer to the door.
2. Come up with a reward system for proper bedtime behavior, like staying in bed if he wakes up. It works better than punishment.
3. Counseling therapy if nothing you do helps.
There are books that discuss Limit-setting and sleep-onset association disorder. Some are listed in Sandman's Book Store. A link to the store is located at http://www.sleepnet.com/disorder.htm
Once there choose the Child's Sleep option on the left column.
Best wishes,
SandmanDisclaimer, I am not an MD and my opinions should not be taken as medical advice. If you feel that you need assistance with medications and/or diagnosis, you should seek medical advice from a qualified physician.