Like adults, all children require different amounts of sleep to perform at their best. Many children need a nap to avoid being overtired throughout the day. Even though your child needs a nap, this does not mean he will go quietly when it's time to take one. If your child is tired, yet puts up a fight every time you encourage him to nap, there are some methods you can employ to help nap time go more smoothly.
Step 1
Maintain a regular nap schedule. If your child knows she must nap at a certain time on a daily basis, she is less likely to resist when it is time to nap. The nap time should place sufficient time between your child's bedtime and the nap so she will still be tired enough to go to sleep at a normal hour at night. You can wake your child up earlier from her nap if going to bed at the same time seems to become a problem.
Step 2
Make your child's nap environment as pleasant as possible. From making the room to providing comfortable pillows, a good environment can make your child more apt to enjoy his napping experience. You also want to limit the amount of background noise, which can help your child sleep more soundly.
Step 3
Allow your child to choose where he would like to nap in your home. Empowering him to make his own choice of nap time location can help to satisfy your child's desire to find places just for him in your house, according to AskDrSears.com. You also can create a "nap corner" in your home just for your child. You can add his favorite toys, comfortable pillows or a blanket your child loves to create a place just for him if he seems to dislike his bedroom for nap time.
Step 4
Employ a relaxing pre-nap routine. Whether this is reading a book or quietly listening to music, taking steps to help your child unwind can help her to feel sleepier. Don't be fooled if she appears more energetic before a nap -- tired children often attempt to move around and remain active to fight off taking a nap.
Step 5
Enforce a quiet time period if your child will not agree to take a nap. You may find your child starts to fall asleep during this time or begins to see the value of a nap if they must engage in quiet time as an alternative.
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