[nikki44]

My 4 year old is having trouble getting back to sleep if she wakes up in the middle of the night. 4 out of 7 nights she might sleep through, but when she doesn't it's becoming a bit of an issue.

She has a story on cd she can listen to which she says doesn't help, but it does give her something to do. Last night after 3 wake ups I gave in, turned her bedside lamp on and gave her some books to look at. When DH'S checked on her about 40 mins later (by this stage it was 4am) she was still awake!

I am up to my 7 month old several times a night so don't have the energy to sit with her till she goes back to sleep. She isn't too distressed but does need a bit of attention which neither DH or I really want to do 3 times a night.

Has anyone else experienced this with their kids and are there any tips on getting her to sleep better? Would love any advice!

[brindle]

Could it be related to food?

My 3-year old sleeps through the night EXCEPT when he has had food that disagrees with him. If he has colours or flavours (including MSG), then he will wake through the nights. Sometimes he is upset and screaming... other times it is just restless (will come into our bed and then be awake for hours).

Might be worth keeping an eye on something like that.