My son is 15 months and crazy. Only thing I find that works is routine, this way he expects bed and has time to wind down. Our routine is dinner, a bath in Johnson’s baby bedtime bath (calming and soothing scent), cuddles and a bedtime story, then I pop him in his cot and kiss him on the forehead, sometimes he cries for 1 min, but its a half hearted cry. I also have a cherished bear in there so he doesn’t feel lonely. My daughter use to self settle A LOT easier and never had toys in her cot, I think my son just misses me and is really clingy so he needs reassurance that he is safe and loved.

Find a quiet and calm activity to do before trying to settle them. Sitting in a rocking chair and singing or humming, reading a book to them, squeezing a ball of playdough or a stress ball, blowing bubbles. Once they’re calmer, start the “routine” of going to sleep. Whatever method you choose, as long as you’re consistent, it will eventually work! I found patting in a heartbeat rhythm was quite effective.