Toddlerhood is full of challenges, and nap time can be especially challenging for parents. Although they may give all the signals indicating that they are tired, some children just refuse to nap. There are different reasons why toddlers don't want to nap. For some, it could simply be a control issue, while for others it is the fear of missing out on any excitement while they're asleep. Often, parents are at a real loss for what to do. Forcing their unwilling child to nap usually leads to a big fight, while skipping the nap can make for a very unpleasant toddler come supper time.
Why Are Naps Important?
To remain healthy, everybody needs to sleep, and kids require more sleep than adults. Naps are crucial for children to get the amount of sleep that they need. During their toddler years, kids develop physically and napping prevents them from becoming overtired, which could make it more difficult for them to fall asleep at night. Toddlers develop at a fast rate, both physically and mentally. Naps give their minds and bodies a rest. Naps are also important for parents. While your busy toddler naps, you have the opportunity to rest yourself.
How Much Sleep Do Toddlers Need?
Most toddlers require 10 to 13 hours of sleep per day, according to KidsHealth.org. Some kids can sleep the total amount of hours during the night and forgo naps, while others may take a one- to three-hour nap in the afternoon. Some toddlers may even take two naps during the day. The amount and length of naps depends on the child. No two toddlers are the same.
Is Your Toddler Ready to Give up Naps?
There are different signs that indicate when toddlers may be ready to give up their nap. For example, according to BabyZone.com, a child may be ready if he sleeps 10 to 12 hours a night without getting up and wakes up on his own, in a good mood. Another indication that a child could cancel nap time is if he remains in a good mood all day without napping. Also, if a child has energy to last all day and goes to bed easily at night, it could be an indication that he is ready to stop napping. Ultimately, it is your decision when to stop afternoon naps. When children finally do give up their nap, they usually end up with an earlier bedtime.
Tips to Get Toddlers to Nap
If you are convinced that your child is not ready to forgo his nap, there are a few things that you can do to promote nap time. Be consistent with nap time. It is easier for kids to stick to a routine when it is always the same. You may want to try lying down with your child or try taking a walk and allowing your toddler to fall asleep in his stroller. Let the child choose when and where he would like to nap. Having the child make these decisions may make him more willing to go off to dreamland.
