Ensure your child gets enough sleep to promote growth and relaxation by supplementing a sound night's slumber with a daily nap. Kids Health from Nemours notes naps will not only help your child re-energize after morning activities, but also keep him from becoming so fatigued he has trouble falling asleep in the evening. If your child resists taking naps, create a routine and an inviting environment that will encourage him to take a break from his activities for a much needed rest.
Step 1
Tell your child it's time for a nap when you notice signs of drowsiness. Parenting magazine notes that a child yawning or rubbing her eyes may be indicating she's ready for a nap. If you allow your child to stay awake even 30 minutes after she begins to display signs of fatigue, she may get her second wind and be ready to continue playing instead of going to sleep.
Step 2
Prepare the room to ensure your child can relax and fall asleep. The Help Guide suggests drawing the blinds or curtains so the room is dark and keeping the room well-ventilated so your child is comfortable when he sleeps. If you hear a lot of noise outside your child's window or know the television or talking in another room will keep him awake, use a fan or a machine that plays soothing nature sounds to block the bothersome noise.
Step 3
Create a pre-nap routine that will help your child switch from playtime to naptime. A regular schedule of activities before a nap can help her settle down enough to sleep. Clean up toys, provide a light snack and a drink of water, dress her in comfortable clothes or pajamas, read a story, sing a song together and rub her back as she rests in bed, for example.
Step 4
Let your child take a comfort item to bed he can use to soothe himself as he falls asleep. Offer a favorite stuffed animal, a blanket, a "soft book" with fabric pages or a parent's sweater to cuddle before he drifts off.
Tips and Warnings
- Help a resistant toddler go down for a nap more easily by using motion to relax her. The PBS website recommends taking your child out for a ride in a stroller or for a calming ride in the car before it's time for a nap. Allow your child to spend restful time in his room if he absolutely can't fall asleep. Kids Health from Nemours advocates letting your child read a book or play quietly with toys during the nap period rather than having an argument about going to sleep. Your child may even be so relaxed in his room he'll fall asleep on his own.
- Keep your child from taking long naps too close to bedtime because they may interfere with her ability to fall asleep, according to the Mayo Clinic. Consider waking your child up earlier in the morning so she can start her daily nap at an earlier hour.
Things You'll Need
- Comfort item
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