That sounds exhausting, especially when you’re happy to comfort him and he still seems distressed. **I’d start with his skin comfort, then adjust the bedtime routine and timing.** Crying alone cannot tell you whether he’s itchy, uncomfortable, or struggling to settle.

1. **Have his eczema treatment reviewed.** Tell his pediatrician or dermatologist specifically about the nightly crying and sleep difficulty. Eczema itching can delay sleep and cause night waking, and his treatment plan may need adjusting. Follow his prescribed skin care, keep him comfortably cool, and use loose, soft sleepwear. [American Academy of Dermatology guidance](https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/eczema/childhood/health-concerns/sleep)

2. **Use a short, predictable wind-down.** Start about 30 minutes before he usually falls asleep. For example: prescribed skin care, pajamas, brush teeth, one book, then a quiet song and cuddle. Dim the lights and keep active play and screens out of this period. Repeat the same sequence each night so he can learn what comes next. [NHS bedtime guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/baby/health/sleep-and-young-children/)

3. **Match bedtime to when he can actually fall asleep.** For several days, note his naps, when you start settling him, when he falls asleep, and whether he scratches or seems uncomfortable. If he consistently stays awake until a particular time, begin the routine shortly before that time. Once settling becomes easier, gradually move it earlier if needed. Keep morning waking and naps reasonably consistent. [NHS guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/baby/health/sleep-and-young-children/)

4. **Offer comfort that allows him to move.** You can keep rocking or patting if it helps. If “holding firm” means restraining his arms or body while he struggles, stop using that to make him sleep. Try a relaxed cuddle; if he pushes away, let him change position in a safe cot while you stay nearby and speak softly. If distress escalates, pause to check his comfort and soothe him before trying again. Avoid pressing him down or restricting his breathing.

Aim first for a calmer bedtime. You can work on reducing rocking later, if you want to. Give a consistent routine several nights, while responding to signs of discomfort.

Seek prompt medical care if his eczema becomes painful, hot, swollen, blistered or oozing, particularly with fever or illness. [NHS eczema guidance](https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/atopic-eczema/)

What time does he wake in the morning, when and how long does he nap, and when do you start bedtime? Those details would help judge whether timing is contributing.