Always Wanting Milk After Put To Bed

[Spectra]

Okay so my dd keeps asking for milk like about 20min after put to bed.  Is she just staling?  If so how do you stop without a war?

[becky1969]

Sounds like a stalling technique to me!

With toddlers, it's always better to tell them upfront what your expectations are. So, when you're putting her to bed you'll say something like "Honey, if you want milk you need to ask now because once you are in bed I will not be getting you anything to drink."  Of course, if after teeth are brushed you don't want to offer any drinks, that's fine too! Just let her know that's waht you expect.  Then you will tell her what will happen if she asks: "If you ask for milk, mama is not going to listen because she already told you the rule is no milk in bed.  I love you!"

There might be fireworks the first night or two, but the only way you're going to change it is to change it!    I've actually been pleasantly surprised at how often just TELLING my son what I expect works.  Too often I find I just think he should know I don't want him shouting in the car or running away from me at the park.  Same here -- you've been getting her milk, so she doesn't know yet that you don't want to!  Tell her that she can't do it any more, and then back it up with your actions.

Good luck! 

[RACHPEM]

My lo had recently started doing this and I know it is just an excuse to delay bed, they are very clever and maniplative arent they? I have just had to be firm with her , sometimes she will still try but knows it wont get her anywhere now.
Stick to your guns, good luck!
Rachael x

[NiknLily]

they're very smart, we had these; need a drink mommy, so I put sippy of water in bed and she quickly learn't to call for "more water", then need a poo, need a wee (she still in nappy at night and never poos in night!) another cuddle mummy, another kiss mummy, need medicine, more rubby (vapour rub, she gets hooked on stuff when she has a cold) more nummy (teething gel) the list goes on and on and the older they get the better the demands get, now I get "want to talk mummy, need to talk to you!"

[Spectra]

Hehe, thanks everyone!  I will definitely not let this continue!