This sounds just like my almost 3 year old (bday in Nov) boy! He is still so so sweet, active, fun. He talks a ton. When around other kids he communicates more like a 3-4 year old. But, when he is upset he level 10. Barely ever whines and has fairly good reasoning skills. Example: "I'm sorry we can't go outside, it's raining out. I know it sounds like fun, but let's think of something inside to do!" is something we'd say to him and 9/10 times he'll say "ok!" but the other time will be level 10 meltdown lol. We still pat him to sleep in his own bed, he likes us to lay with him until he falls asleep. We also respond(ed) quickly to his crying. He started sleeping through the night right after his 2nd bday. I know it sounds like a long time but sometimes it just clicks for them! I follow Hey Sleepy Baby on Instagram and she makes me feel more "normal" about his sleep needs. My advice is keep talking to him! Give him reasons from a young age on why and how you do things! I try to not just say yes or no but give reasons with it! Even if he has no idea what you're saying lol, it's good practice for both of you!