I have a similar situation as you...and similar problems.  I just found a book that I like and have started to use its methods.  One major thing that has helped is to give your child "crib time".  Which means 2 or 3 times a day put her in her crib to play.  At first, play with her and comfort her.  In a few days, leave her to play in the crib by herself while you sit in a chair nearby.  After that has worked, leave the room for a minute or two and let her know that you will be right back.  This has done wonders for me...she will no longer scream when in her crib.  The two naps work for me as well. 

I also hold her to go to sleep...so I understand.  There are ways to wean the baby from this too...but I am still working on that!!  Hope this helps.

Oh...also:  I had to force my baby into the two naps a day by driving her around in the car (the sure way to get her to sleep) to get her to take her naps.  Now she is on the schedule...but it took me about a week.

Hi there,

It's always nice to snuggle your baby to sleep, no matter how old they are.  Our 2 year old won't go to sleep unless she is snuggled up with me on the couch, I actually enjoy that snuggle time with her.

It sounds to me like your little one is coming into that stage where they want to be independant and dependant at the same time.  It is rough, and can last for a while.  Our 14 month old has been going through the same for about 3 months now.

You may also notice that when she gets frustrated, she will squeal/scream, throw things including herself onto the floor, possibly bang her head or other disturbing behaviours.  It is all part of self discovery and the best way to deal with it is to ignore it, that means at bed time, going down the controlled crying path. 

I think she needs to have 2 naps a day still, as an overly tired baby is not going to be easy to settle.  They are tired and grumpy but just refuse to sleep.

well i think they are at the age they start floppin around like fish to get their way! My daughter is the same age, i rocked he to sleep also. CC killed me, didnt overly work. but did show me she would be ok to cry a bit. I stopped breast feeding and Jade came good. to my suprise! as she was never slept properly! jade still has three naps though, sometimes two. i dont have the answer but you may have to change how u put your bub to sleep, (no bashin do what ever works 4 u) try a differrent position, or spot. there are heaps of people in here that may be more helpful but dont give up hope, it can only get better. As for going batty we are going there! lol