Patting habit help

[Jess_C]

DS is 10months old and used to be an independent sleeper until 8 m when separation anxiety kicks in. For naps sometimes he can self settle but for night sleep he just can't . I hv to stay there and pat him. I don't know how to break this habit. We r at the point he just want my hand there. How do I break this?

[anna*]

To an extent, you just have to stop, yk? And accept that there will be some crying. You could stroke his head or even pat him until he's calm, but stop (not suddenly) as soon as he's calm and before he's gone to sleep. The first few nights will be hard, but he will sleep, eventually.

[Jess_C]

Thanks Anna. Each time I stop patting and walk away he screams bloody murder. I give in and go in again as I dint want to let him cry it out. Maybe I ll try again and be more gradual. Stay there first and not walk away then slowly try to walk away. Any thoughts?

[creations]

Hi there
It's just been highlighted you didn't get an answer here.
How are things now? any better or you still need some help?