How can I get my 2 1/2 year old to stop night waking?

My son has always slept all night since about 6 months old, with the exception of sickness & teething. He has, for the past 2 weeks, been night waking. He's inconsolable, screaming & making demands. When you try to meet his demands, he continues to scream & says he doesn't want what you got for him. He also has a twin brother that sleeps in the room with him, that doesnt get any sleep while these "fits" are happening. My husband and I have tried crying it out, which escalates the tantrum. We have tried putting him back in the bed and remaining silent over & over again, until he falls back asleep. I've spanked him. I've tried just loving on him, and nothing seems to work. We have 3 children, none of them are getting sleep. My husband & I arent getting any sleep. I am at my whits end. I dont know what to do anymore. Please help.

Is he still taking naps? Perhaps don't let him have naps anymore. Give him snacks in the afternoon and let him play. Then put give him warm bath and put him to bed about 7:30pm. Don't forget to read him story! See if that helps.
Perhaps he need to sleep in his own room.
I had that problem with my little girl when she was 2 and now she is 5. I took away naps and she sleeps much better. Your son may be one of the kids don't need naps. Hope this helps. =)

My daughter woke up many times like you describe asking for a sippy cup usually. Instead of meeting her demands with milk or juice, I gave her water. She did cry about it, but after about 4 nights, she gave up. If there seems to be nothing he is trying to gain, there might be something else wrong. Usually a child can be consoled with something (going in your bed, cup, animal, something). If you are trying to break him of it, being consistent is the key.

well my daughter did the same thing , while he is screaming and making demands he does not remember them becasue he is not awake . take him to see the Doctor .. we just had to wait it out for our daughter but I wish you good luck ...

Aarrghhh! What a nightmare! Unfortunately as far as I have worked out there is only one way to get little ones asleep all night. Firstly I suggest you temporarily move his twin in with you or the other sibling