Separation Anxiety?

So we went to see the pediatrician today to find out if Dan Dan had an ear infection that caused him waking up almost every night. Turns out he's fine and despite some ear wax, no ear infection. So we just talked about the sleepless nights. Since there hasn't been any stress or change in Dan Dan's life or routine, and he wakes up at various times, the doctor said it's probably separation anxiety. This is what she suggested:

- a small night light because he might be scared when he wakes up and doesn't see mommy
- mommy will need to sleep in the same room with him to soothe him if he wakes up crying (not whimpering or whining in his REM sleep)
- do not pick him up or turn on the big light; just pet and soothe to make sure mommy is here
- once he seems better, move the mattress in his room a little farther away but still in his room
- eventually mommy goes back to her room

Doctor also recommended the book by Dr. Richard Ferber, 2nd edition of "Solve Your Child's Sleep Problems". She said it gotta be the 2nd edition, as the 1st edition has some controversial methods. Of course this is the doctor that's famous for the Crying-It-out Ferber method. As the doctor said, there's much to the CIO method than just letting your kid cry. I guess that's a very broad generalization and misunderstanding of his method. I'll see if I can find that book at the library so I don't have to buy it.

I am hoping Dan Dan won't wake up tonight as he's too tired today and we got him a nice fluffy pillow, just like how he likes to sleep on our comforter. He slept well last night, hopefully he'll sleep well tonight again. October is almost over, I am hoping for a better November.