3 year-old bed partner

Our 3 -year- old has started coming into our bed in the middle of the night(sometimes at 1:00a.m., sometimes at 5:00 a.m., etc.). We used to take him back to his own bed, but his 9-month-old brother is now in the same room. To avoid waking up the baby, we just let him sleep in our bed. What can we do?

There is only one way to avoid having this habit continue, and that is to consistently (no matter how many times) take him back to his own bed with a quick hug and no words. It is important toavoid words. This is a case where actions speak louder than words. While you are going through this training period, you might want to find another corner of the house for his baby brother to sleep.

Of course, your other option is to continue to let him sleep in your bed. I don't believe this is healthy for him or for you. The reasons for this are explained in further detail in the book"Positive Discipline for Preschoolers," which I think you would enjoy and find very helpful. You may also want to read the answer on "The family bed" on our homepage:www.empoweringpeople.com.